A former Kaduna gov facilitated release of our kids- Parents of abducted school girls

Parents of the six girls abducted by gunmen from the Engravers College, Kakau Daji in Chikun Local Government of Kaduna State, have confirmed that ransom was paid to secure the release of their children.

The parents said they were able to raise the money through the intervention of good spirited individuals, adding that they remain eternally grateful to a former governor of Kaduna State, who was of immense help in securing the release of their daughters from captivity.

The parents who briefed newsmen in Kaduna, said it is only appropriate for them to confirm the release of their daughters since the abduction was publicised and to also appreciate those who assisted them in their time of trial.

Spokesman of the group, Mr. Ohemu Monday Frederick, said the abductors demanded ransom from them and that the money was paid in two instalments before the six girls and two staff members of the school were released.

Daily Trust had earlier reported that the parents had initially raised N3.6 million which they sent to the bandits, but they held on to the victims, saying the amount was not enough until another N10 million was paid.

Other sources indicated that a serving governor in the North-east, a popular politician in Kaduna State and others were among those that contributed money to raise the ransom in addition to the contributions of the former governor and his friends.

Frederick, on behalf of the parents said they are grateful to God that their daughters were released after staying in the bush for 23 days.

“We thank God and all Nigerians who stood by us, those who offered prayers on our behalf and those that provided help one way or the other for us to meet the demand of the kidnappers.

“We thank the former governor of Kaduna State who came unexpectedly and made contributions with his friends,” he said.

The parents also thanked the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) saying it also came to their aid just as it appreciated the effort of the police in helping to convey their daughters to safety when they were released on the 26th.