By|| Goodluck E.Adubazi || Abuja
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Federal Government to urgently clarify reports alleging that more than N10 billion was paid as ransom and two senior Boko Haram commanders were released to secure the freedom of abducted pupils and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said while it welcomed the safe return of the victims, the allegations—if true—raise grave concerns about Nigeria’s counter-terrorism posture and adherence to the law.
The controversy follows international media reports claiming that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu authorised both a substantial ransom payment and the release of high-profile detainees linked to Boko Haram as part of negotiations to free the kidnapped victims.
On government’s previous denials,
The ADC recalled that shortly after the victims regained freedom, the Federal Government and security agencies publicly denied paying any ransom. The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, reportedly described ransom payments as “one of the worst things” fueling insecurity in the country.
The party also referenced the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which criminalises negotiations and ransom payments to terrorists and kidnappers.
According to the ADC, confirmation of the reports would suggest a contradiction between government policy and practice.
“Serious National Security Implications”
The party warned that alleged ransom payments on such a scale, coupled with the potential release of senior terror suspects, could amount to terrorism financing and undermine the rule of law.
“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 statement read.
The ADC further alleged that presenting ransom arrangements as rescue operations would erode public trust and embolden criminal networks.
The opposition party is demanding a clear and categorical response from the Federal Government on whether any ransom—directly or indirectly—was paid in connection with the Papiri abduction and whether any detainees were released or exchanged as part of negotiations.
While acknowledging the pressure on government to ensure the safe return of abducted citizens, the ADC cautioned against what it described as sacrificing long-term national security principles for short-term political gains.
“No serious government will sacrifice national security on the altar of political expediency and short-term media applause,” the statement concluded.