The Senate spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, has denied claims that the Federal Government paid ransom to secure the release of schoolchildren abducted in recent attacks in Kebbi and Niger states.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Friday, Adaramodu stressed that no money was exchanged, despite confirmation from presidential aide Bayo Onanuga that security operatives contacted the abductors during efforts to free kidnap victims in Kwara State.
He explained that while security agencies may engage kidnappers in different ways during rescue operations, they are not required to disclose their tactics publicly.
“From our side at the National Assembly, we believe the Federal Government did not pay any ransom to anybody,” he said. “Contacts with bandits can be forceful, persuasive, or a combination of both.”
His remarks come amid renewed concerns over rising school abductions and growing public suspicion about the government’s rescue strategies. Civil society groups have frequently criticised the lack of transparency when victims are released without reports of arrests or confrontation.
Responding to questions on the absence of evidence showing captured gunmen after the latest rescues, Adaramodu said criminals often flee when security forces close in.
“If you have not seen the corpses of abductors or them being handcuffed, that does not negate the possibility of intense confrontation,” he noted.
The lawmaker also revealed that the Senate has established an ad-hoc committee to investigate the Kebbi school abduction. Preliminary reports indicate that soldiers assigned to protect the school abandoned their post shortly before the attack.
He added that the committee will also probe the circumstances surrounding the death of Brigadier General Musa Uba, who was involved in anti-banditry operations.
Adaramodu reiterated that while the National Assembly expects accountability, security agencies are not obliged to reveal sensitive operational details. He assured that the Senate remains committed to supporting national security efforts and restoring safety across the country.
