Kebbi Governor Receives Rescued Schoolgirls, Insists No Ransom was Paid

Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris on Tuesday received the 25 schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, confirming that all of them were rescued safely and in good health.

Speaking to journalists, Idris dismissed reports suggesting that ransom was paid to secure their freedom.

“No kobo was paid. The military, DSS and other security forces combed the forest and rescued them unhurt,” he said.

The governor credited the successful operation to the directive of President Bola Tinubu, noting that security agencies responded “swiftly and decisively” once the order was issued.

He expressed appreciation to the military, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the police for what he described as a coordinated and efficient rescue effort.

Idris also thanked religious leaders who “prayed ceaselessly” for the girls’ safe return, describing their support as a source of strength during the tense period. He further acknowledged the solidarity shown by prominent Nigerians, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, APC governors, and the Inspector General of Police, whose visit he said boosted morale in the state.

The governor praised the parents of the rescued students for their patience and trust in the government throughout the ordeal.