Schoolchildren who were abducted in the north-western town of Kuriga have regained their freedom.
This was confirmed in a statement released by the Kaduna State governor, Senator Uba Sani, in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Edugist earlier reported that the schoolchildren were on the assembly grounds around 8:30 on March 7, 2024, when dozens of gunmen on motorcycles rode through the school and seized them in large numbers.
The students, between the ages of eight and 15, were taken away, along with a teacher, according to an eyewitness.
While announcing the release of the children, the governor thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for prioritizing the safety and security of Nigerians and particularly ensuring that the abducted Kuriga school children are released unharmed.
The actual number of the students released was not stated by the governor.
The statement reads:
“In the name of Allah the Beneficient, the Most Merciful, I wish to announce that our Kuriga school children have been released.
“Our special appreciation goes to our dear President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for prioritizing the safety and security of Nigerians and particularly ensuring that the abducted Kuriga school children are released unharmed. While the school children were in captivity, I spoke with Mr. President several times. He shared our pains, comforted us and worked round the clock with us to ensure the safe return of the children.
“Special mention must also be made of our dear brother, the National Security Adviser, Mal. Nuhu Ribadu for his exemplary leadership. I spent sleepless nights with Mal. Ribadu finetuning strategies and coordinating the operations of the security agencies, which eventually resulted in this successful outcome.
“The Nigerian Army also deserves special commendation for showing that with courage, determination and commitment, criminal elements can be degraded and security restored in our communities.
“We also thank all Nigerians who prayed fervently for the safe return of the school children. This is indeed a day of joy. We give Almighty Allah all the glory.”
