Military insists no ransom was paid for release of Chibok girls

Nigeria Defence Headquarters has described a  news story by a national newspaper  alleging that ransom was paid by the government in exchange for the recently released of 21 of the abducted Chibok girls as false.

 

In a statement signed by Brigadier Rabe Abubakar, its spokesperson, the Defence Headquarters described the claim in the news report as quite unfortunate, especially since the military said it has made several statements to clarify the issue surrounding the release of the girls in the past.

 

“ It is therefore worrisome that some sections of the media continue to undermine this modest effort of the government, security agencies and other stakeholders.  It is imperative to state categorically that the sponsors of this media campaign have a hidden agenda which is best known to them.

 

“The military and other security agencies will not be distracted and would remain focus in achieving its objectives in the North East.

 

“The important thing is that the release have been made and circumstances surrounding this effort should not be a matter of controversy so as not to overheat the polity and jeorpardising the ongoing efforts to secure the release of the remaining girls and other innocent citizens still  in captivity of the terrorists.

 

“The insinuations that ransom was paid to the terrorists which the terrorists used to escalate the recent attacks in the North East is completely false and imagination of the author.  The general public should therefore discountenance it in its entirety.

 

“The DHQ wishes to once more remind the media to be cautious of such reports which has serious implication on national and to further add that, as partners in progress, the media also has a stake in the ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace in the North East and the country in general,” Brigadier Rabe said.