The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed that the Federal Government does not negotiate with or pay ransom to kidnappers or terrorist groups, stressing that such actions only encourage criminality.
Musa stated this in an interview with BBC Hausa, where he explained that the military relies on credible intelligence and swift operational responses to rescue abducted persons.
According to the minister, paying ransom fuels the activities of kidnappers and terrorists, as it creates the impression that crime is profitable.
“Government doesn’t pay ransom to rescue anyone from terrorists. It is individuals who make such payments. Whenever there is a case of kidnapping, the military always swings into action,” Musa said.
He added that he does not support the payment of ransom, warning that guaranteed financial rewards would attract more people into kidnapping and terrorism.
The defence minister further clarified that when ransom payments occur, they are usually made by private individuals and not by the government.
Musa assured Nigerians that the armed forces respond promptly to kidnapping incidents, emphasizing the commitment of the military to protect lives and maintain national security.
