The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has issued a stern appeal to Nigerians, urging them to desist from paying ransoms to kidnappers and bandits, describing the practice as “counterproductive” and detrimental to the fight against insecurity in the country.
Ribadu made the call on Tuesday in Abuja while handing over 60 rescued victims of kidnapping and banditry to their families.
He said the successful operation — which involved the coordinated efforts of the military and other security agencies — is a clear demonstration that Nigeria’s security forces are capable of rescuing abductees without ransom payments.
“Once again, we are here to do what we have done a couple of times already — to hand over rescued victims of kidnap and banditry to their families,” Ribadu said, expressing gratitude to the armed forces and the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
The victims — 35 males and 25 females — were reportedly abducted from Lere, Zangon Kataf, and Kagarko Local Government Areas of Kaduna State as well as the Federal Capital Territory.
Among those rescued were Adesanya Michael, a deputy director at the National Assembly Commission kidnapped in Abuja, and Ishaya Kuka, a brother to Bishop Matthew Kukah.
Ribadu said, “Many of these families gave money to the kidnappers, yet it did not guarantee the release of their loved ones.
It was still the security agencies that carried out their rescue. I want to make a very strong appeal to all — stop giving money to these people. It is understandable, yes, but it only fuels the cycle of violence.”
Describing the trend as one of the “worst things happening” in the fight against banditry, the NSA said ransom payments embolden criminal elements and prolong insecurity across communities.
He emphasized that while the return of the abductees is a step forward, efforts are ongoing to ensure the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.
“Daily, we are getting freedom back to our people. We will continue to do so. We will not relent, and we will not stop,” Ribadu stated.
The National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Adamu Laka, who also spoke during the event, said the rescue operation was conducted by troops of the Nigerian Army’s 1 Division, with support from other security and intelligence agencies.
The latest operation comes amidst rising concern over the security situation in parts of northern Nigeria and the FCT. Despite a N73 billion allocation to the Office of the National Security Adviser in the 2023 budget, and a further N29 billion in a supplementary budget, kidnapping for ransom remains a major threat.
Security experts have repeatedly warned that ransom payments undermine national security, encourage criminality, and weaken public trust in government institutions.
Ribadu’s appeal marks a renewed push by the Tinubu-led administration to tackle insecurity and dismantle the financial incentives driving the kidnapping industry.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
