By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Federal Government to provide a categorical explanation regarding reports that it paid a massive ransom and released terrorist commanders to secure the freedom of abducted students and staff in Papiri, Rivers State.
In a statement released on [Insert Date if available, otherwise omit] and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party expressed alarm over international media reports alleging that the government paid over N10 billion and freed two senior Boko Haram commanders in exchange for the hostages.
The ADC recalled that following the release of the kidnapped victims from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, the government and security agencies vehemently denied any ransom payment. The party specifically noted the position of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, who has publicly described ransom payments as “one of the worst things” fueling insecurity.
“The Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, expressly outlaws negotiations and ransom payments to kidnappers and terrorists,” the statement read.
However, the ADC argued that if the latest international reports are true, it would expose a significant disconnect between the government’s public stance and its actions.
“Allegations of ransom payments at this scale, and the possible release of high-value terror elements, raise serious concerns about terrorism financing, the rule of law, and the safety of citizens,” the party stated.
The opposition party criticized the government for what it termed a “hypocritical posture,” suggesting that while authorities may be acting under pressure to secure short-term political gains by bringing kidnapped victims home, such actions ultimately incentivize future abductions and put more communities at risk.
“Nigeria cannot claim to discourage ransom payments while operating in a manner that, if confirmed, rewards terror networks, incentivises future abductions, and puts more communities at risk,” the ADC added.
The party demanded a clear explanation from the Federal Government on two specific points: whether any ransom, directly or indirectly, was paid in relation to the Papiri abduction, and whether any detainees or captured terror suspects were released, exchanged, or discharged as part of the negotiations.
Concluding its sharp rebuke, the ADC warned, “No serious government will sacrifice national security principles on the altar of political expediency and short term media applause.”
As of the time of this report, the Federal Government and the National Security Adviser’s office have yet to issue an official response to the ADC’s allegations.
