Following the abduction of pupils and staff members at LEA Primary School, Kuriga, Kaduna State, the state government, led by Governor Uba Sani, has initiated negotiations for their safe release.
A reliable source within the Kaduna State Government House, who preferred anonymity for security reasons, disclosed this during a conversation with The Punch.
According to the government official, negotiations with the bandits have commenced through a seasoned private negotiator, renowned for successfully facilitating the release of abducted individuals in the past.
“The military has commenced search operations in the forests to locate the abducted children. Security personnel have cordoned off the area and intensified efforts to locate the missing pupils,” the source stated.
“The government is sparing no effort to ensure the swift and safe return of the abducted schoolchildren. Negotiations with the bandits have commenced through a prominent negotiator, known for his successful track record in resolving abduction cases,” the source added.
The negotiator in question has previously facilitated the release of abducted students in Katsina State and has extensive experience in negotiating with bandits.
Governor Sani, during his visit to the school, reassured the parents and families of the victims of the government’s commitment to securing the safe return of the abducted pupils.
Furthermore, President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to prioritize the immediate release of the abducted students, their teachers, and also female internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Borno State.