Tinubu Rejects Ransom Payments to Bandits and Terrorists

President Bola Tinubu declared that his administration will not engage in ransom payments or negotiations with bandits and terrorists in Nigeria. This statement was made during a meeting with Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, and the Oyo State Council of Obas at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Tinubu revealed that bandits and terrorists had demanded the release of their detained members as a condition for the release of abducted Nigerians. He firmly rejected this demand, stating, “I said no deal as we are not going to negotiate with criminals and we refuse to pay ransom.” He also mentioned the government's strategic response to terrorism and banditry, including increasing military divisions from eight to twelve to enhance response times.

Furthermore, Tinubu discussed plans for establishing state police and strengthening forest guards, emphasizing the importance of intelligence gathering in combating terrorism.