FG Denies Paying N2bn Ransom For Niger Abduction
The Federal Government of Nigeria has dismissed claims that it paid a ₦2 billion ransom to secure the release of students abducted from St. Mary’s School in Papiri, Niger State.
In a statement, the government described the allegation as false and baseless, insisting that no ransom was paid for the students’ freedom.
The abduction, which sparked concern across the country, involved pupils of St. Mary’s School in Papiri, located in Niger State.
Authorities maintained that security operations, not ransom payments, led to the safe return of the students.
Officials said the government remains committed to tackling insecurity and discouraging ransom payments, which they argue could embolden criminal groups.
The denial comes amid public debate and speculation over how the students regained their freedom.
