Kaduna School Abduction: Over 200 Children Freed After Two Weeks in Captivity
Some of the released children with their parents
By Reporter
137 of nearly 300 Kaduna State Children abducted more than two weeks ago from their school were released today Sunday, March 24, 2024. This is according to the information by the military.
The State Governor Senator Uba Sani also released a statement confirming that all the students were freed.
Motorcycle-riding gunmen invaded the Kuriga school on March 7, 2024 and marched the children into the forests before security forces could arrive, as terrified families watched helplessly.
School authorities said a total of 287 students were kidnapped during the attack, at least 100 of them are aged 12 or younger.
Kaduna State Gov. Uba Sani, who first announced the rescue, did not give details about the operation. Government sources so far is unable to clarify the discrepancy in the number of those freed.
“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,” Governor Sani said.
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