- He said such reports unfairly question the credibility and professionalism of the country’s security agencies
- He categorically stated that no ransom was paid and no militant commanders were released in connection with the rescue
- The report also suggested that cash was transported by helicopter to a Boko Haram commander in Gwoza
The Federal Government has dismissed allegations that it paid a large ransom or released detained militants to secure the freedom of pupils abducted from St. Mary’s Boarding School in Niger State.
In a statement on Tuesday, Eko Hot Blog reports that the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the claims as entirely unfounded.
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He said such reports unfairly question the credibility and professionalism of the country’s security agencies.
According to the minister, while the government respects press freedom, it rejects narratives based on anonymous sources that cast doubt on lawful actions taken by the state.
He categorically stated that no ransom was paid and no militant commanders were released in connection with the rescue.
The response follows a report by Agence France-Presse (AFP), which quoted unnamed intelligence sources alleging that billions of naira were paid to secure the students’ release.
The report also suggested that cash was transported by helicopter to a Boko Haram commander in Gwoza, Borno State, and that two militant leaders were freed as part of the arrangement.
Idris said the claims were inconsistent and relied solely on unidentified individuals described as intelligence sources or persons familiar with the discussions.
He noted that key government institutions, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, and the National Assembly leadership, have publicly denied any ransom payment.
He added that the reported helicopter delivery and alleged cross-border confirmation of funds were fabrications, pointing out that the DSS had dismissed the account as false.
The minister maintained that the safe recovery of the schoolchildren was achieved through coordinated intelligence efforts and carefully executed operations, without loss of life.
He also urged media organisations to verify information thoroughly before publication, warning that unsubstantiated reports could encourage criminal elements or weaken the morale of security personnel.
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