The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Federal Government of negotiating with kidnappers to free victims, following the release of 24 schoolgirls abducted from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS), Maga, Kebbi State.
Government Allegedly Negotiates with Insurgents
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi said, “The government is making deals with kidnappers and insurgents. Perhaps they want a quick win or public recognition, but they cannot deny these negotiations.” He argued that official contact with the attackers implied knowledge of their locations and intentions.
Abdullahi questioned why authorities did not arrest the bandits. “Whether they begged or paid the kidnappers, the fact remains the government interacted with them directly. This shows vulnerability and encourages further attacks,” he said.
Concerns About the Banditry Economy
The former Minister of Sports described the approach as reinforcing the “banditry economy.” He cited the abduction of 11 people in Isapa following the release of churchgoers in Eruku. Abdullahi warned, “Making deals signals weakness and motivates criminals to commit more crimes.”
While he acknowledged that Nigerians are relieved the schoolgirls returned safely, he criticized the government’s approach as unsustainable. “Escalating security, not negotiations, should remain the priority. The president’s declaration of a nationwide security emergency is a step in the right direction,” he added.
School Closures and Boko Haram Ideology
Abdullahi also criticized the closure of schools to prevent abductions. “Shutting down schools signals that the government cannot protect its institutions. It also strengthens Boko Haram’s ideology against Western education,” he said.
Background
The Kebbi school abduction on November 17 left Vice Principal Malam Hassan Makuku dead. The 24 schoolgirls regained freedom on Tuesday, reigniting national debates over government strategies against insecurity. Abdullahi rejected claims that the ADC lobbied foreign powers or fueled insecurity, emphasizing that the party supports a strategic, sustainable approach to ending banditry.
Read also: 24 Kebbi Schoolgirls Regain Freedom; No Ransom Paid
