Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, says the Federal Government does not negotiate with or pay ransom to terrorists.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, Bwala acknowledged that previous administrations sometimes entered negotiations to save lives but insisted that Tinubu’s government now operates a strict zero-tolerance policy.
Paying ransom, he said, amounts to “constructively financing terrorism” and only enables terrorists to buy more weapons.
Responding to questions on the release of kidnapped pupils in Kebbi State and children from St Mary’s School in Niger State, Bwala said several factors, including pressure from negotiators, religious leaders, intelligence operations or families, can lead to the release of victims.
He maintained, however, that “the Federal Government did not pay ransom”, dismissing claims in terrorist videos alleging negotiations took place
He said such statements are meant to spread fear and confusion. “Terrorists can say anything,” he said, adding that if they had evidence, they would present it.
Bwala noted that the insecurity challenge was inherited but stressed that the government is focused on solving the problem rather than responding to speculation.
