The families of the schoolchildren kidnapped in Kaduna have been approached by the kidnappers, who are demanding a one billion naira ransom in exchange for their release.

According to Reuters, the kidnappers have threatened to kill the schoolchildren and staff if their demands are not met within 20 days. This is a chilling and deeply concerning development, and highlights the urgent need for action to ensure the children’s safety.

In a shocking incident, a group of bandits invaded the LEA Primary School Kuriga in Kaduna’s Chikun Local Government Area and abducted 286 pupils and teachers on March 7. The victims are still being held by the kidnappers, who are demanding a ransom. The attack has sparked widespread outrage and concern for the safety of students in the region.

Following the tragic abduction of hundreds of students in Kaduna, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued instructions to the Ministry of Defence and security agencies. The president has warned against paying ransom to kidnappers or bandits, as it only encourages further criminal activity.

But in light of the kidnapper’s threat that greeted the country on Tuesday, these pupils’ lives are in jeopardy.

Jubril Aminu, a community leader and spokesman for the families of the hostages, has revealed that the kidnappers are demanding a ransom of 1 billion naira (over $2.5 million) for the release of all the pupils, students, and staff members they abducted.

“They gave an ultimatum to pay the ransom within 20 days, effective from the date of the kidnap. They said they will kill all the students and the staff if the ransom demand is not met.”

Idris Ibrahim, an elected official from the Kuriga Ward municipal council, confirmed the ransom demand and the amount.

“Yes, the kidnappers called the community through Jubril Aminu’s number and made the demand,” he said.

“They called from a hidden number but the authorities are working on getting the number,” Ibrahim told Reuters.