The African Democratic Congress has accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of secretly paying ransom to Boko Haram while publicly denying doing so, and has demanded full disclosure regarding the alleged Papiri school deal and the reported release of insurgent commanders.
The opposition party’s statement follows reports by international news agency AFP alleging that the Nigerian government paid ₦2 billion in November for the release of 230 abducted students from St. Mary’s Catholic School.
According to AFP, the money was allegedly delivered in cash to a Boko Haram commander in Gwoza, Borno State. The report cited unnamed sources and claimed that part of the deal involved the release of some detained Boko Haram fighters.
The federal government had previously denied paying ransom in connection with the students’ release. Authorities have consistently maintained that ransom payments encourage further kidnappings and undermine counterterrorism efforts.
Reacting to the report, the ADC called for transparency and accountability. The party questioned whether public funds were used in negotiations and whether insurgent suspects were freed as part of any arrangement.
The ADC also demanded clarification regarding operations in Papiri, Niger State, which it said have not been adequately explained despite public concern. The party argued that Nigerians deserve to know the full circumstances surrounding the release of the students.
In its statement, the ADC said any confirmed payment of ransom would contradict the government’s stated security policy. It further warned that the alleged release of Boko Haram commanders, if true, could have serious implications for national security.
The party urged the National Assembly to conduct an independent inquiry into the matter. It also called on the Office of the National Security Adviser to provide a comprehensive account of the events.
AFP reported that it had contacted National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu for comment but had not received a response at the time of publication.
Security analysts note that governments facing mass abductions often operate under intense pressure, balancing humanitarian concerns with long-term security strategies. Negotiations with armed groups are frequently conducted in secrecy due to operational sensitivities.
Kidnappings and insurgent violence remain persistent challenges in parts of northern Nigeria. The abduction of students has repeatedly sparked national outrage and international attention.
As of now, there has been no official confirmation from the federal government acknowledging any ransom payment linked to the reported case. The presidency and security agencies have yet to issue detailed responses to the latest allegations.
The controversy is likely to intensify political debate over counterterrorism policies and transparency in security operations. Observers say the government’s response in the coming days may shape public perception of its handling of the situation.
