23 December 2024

Abducted Students: El-Rufai Working Hard, Will Not Succumb To Blackmail – KSG

Nasir-El-Rufai-Gunman-1
A combination of file photos of Governor Nasir El-Rufai and a man holding a rifle.

 

The Kaduna State Government says contrary to certain reports certain sections of the media, the bond between Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, and the parents of the abducted students of Federal College of Forestry Mechanization, and other citizens in captivity is deep empathy amidst spirited efforts to secure them.

In a statement on Friday, Samuel Aruwan the commissioner, ministry of internal security and home affairs said the governor will continue to work hard until banditry is contained, without succumbing to emotional blackmail and gradual politicization of the unfortunate situation.

Citing an instance, Arunwa noted that some sections of the media have been reporting the parents’ responses to the purported threats by the governor to prosecute them, “which is simply false and deeply mischievous”.

According to the commissioner, the statement of the government warning impostors who have been presenting themselves as government-appointed emissaries to negotiate with bandits across the State has nothing to do with the parents or relatives of the abducted students or any other person in captivity.

READ ALSO: Afaka Abduction: Kidnappers Demand N500m, Parents Appeal To FG

“It was rather directed primarily to some identified individuals exploiting the security situation in the State, and neighboring States,” Arunwa emphasized

He said the state government will not join issues with the parents whose pain is understandable and with whom the Kaduna government shares the common goal of the return of all the abducted students.

Mr. Arunwa assured the Kaduna people that the state government continues to work towards crushing banditry, kidnapping, and other acts of criminality menacing the people and communities.

The commissioner said the government believes that most people of goodwill share the desire of having the state totally safe and at peace, and as such advised everyone to be wary of those who see in the misery of others only an opportunity for needless controversy.