Tinubu’s Bold Stance: No More Ransom for Bandits and Terrorists

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu firmly declared that his administration will no longer pay ransom to bandits and Boko Haram terrorists.

This statement was made in commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls.

President Tinubu emphasized the need to put an end to the practice of ransom payments, as it only serves to perpetuate more kidnappings and encourages the growth of criminal gangs.

He highlighted the recent case in Kaduna, where 137 children were abducted from a school and subsequently rescued by security and intelligence agencies, as an example of the government’s commitment to addressing the issue of kidnappings.

The President also acknowledged the changing nature of the threat, with kidnappings now primarily being carried out by criminal gangs rather than ideological groups like Boko Haram.

He stressed the importance of addressing both the pull factors, such as the financial incentives of ransom payments, and the push factors, including poverty and inequality, to effectively combat the problem.

In addition to security measures, President Tinubu discussed the need for economic reforms to address the root causes of insecurity.

He pointed to the removal of the fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira as necessary steps to stabilize the economy and attract foreign investment.

Despite the short-term pain these measures have caused, the President argued that they are essential for long-term economic growth and stability.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges of insecurity and economic development, President Tinubu’s bold stance against ransom payments and his commitment to economic reforms signal a new chapter in the country’s history.

His administration’s efforts to address the root causes of insecurity and foster a more prosperous and secure Nigeria will undoubtedly be closely watched by both Nigerians and the international community.