The Nigeria Police Force on Monday assured Nigerians that pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State would be rescued safely, declaring that it would not engage in ransom negotiations with their captors.
The Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Information and Communication Technology, Adegoke Fayoade, gave the assurance during a working visit to the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
Fayoade said ongoing coordinated operations involving multiple security agencies were already yielding progress, expressing confidence that the victims would regain their freedom “within the shortest possible time.”
He dismissed reports suggesting that ransom demands were being considered, stressing that the police would not adopt such an approach.
“We don’t know anything about ransom because we don’t talk about ransom. All efforts are directed towards getting the abductees freed safely,” he said.
The DIG explained that his visit to Lagos was part of efforts to strengthen operational oversight, assess field strategies, and engage officers on improved responses to emerging security threats across the country.
He acknowledged existing challenges within the Force, including manpower shortages, welfare concerns, and logistics gaps, but noted that steps were being taken to address them through ongoing recruitment and improved welfare packages.
Fayoade also highlighted the growing deployment of technology in policing, including the use of centralised data systems and artificial intelligence to boost intelligence gathering and criminal investigations.
While commending officers for their professionalism, he urged them to uphold human rights in the discharge of their duties and called for stronger collaboration between security agencies, communities, and other stakeholders.
The police assurance comes amid heightened concerns over rising cases of abduction in parts of the country, particularly involving schoolchildren, which have continued to trigger public outrage and calls for decisive action by security authorities.
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