The Federal Government has issued a caution to Nigerians, advising against the payment of ransom to kidnappers and bandits. Minister of Defence, Muhammadu Badaru, conveyed this warning during a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, January 17, following the Federal Executive Council meeting. Badaru emphasized that such payments would only embolden the culprits, leading to increased demands and posing a threat to public safety.
Furthermore, President Bola Tinubu has instructed security agencies to escalate their efforts in eradicating criminal elements from society. Badaru shared insights into the government’s proactive measures, stating, “Yesterday, we are aware Mr. President called us and all the service chiefs to discuss this issue. So, concerted efforts are being made by security to stop it immediately.”
He shed light on the geographical areas affected by kidnappings, particularly in the suburbs bordering Kaduna and Niger states, attributing the incidents to ongoing operations in the northwest and parts of the north-central region. Badaru assured the public that security agencies are diligently working to displace the bandits, block their movement, and bring a conclusive end to the situation.
