Parents of the abducted students from the Federal University Gusau in Zamfara State are urging the federal government to act swiftly after bandits issued a 7-day ultimatum threatening the lives of the kidnapped students.
The parents are pleading for negotiation, citing past successful negotiations with non-state actors during the Boko Haram insurgency.
The bandits, who recently appointed a new leader, are demanding the release of their comrades held by security forces.
The late bandits’ leader, Ali Kachalla, responsible for the initial abduction, was reportedly killed during an operation by the Nigerian Air Force.
Evidence has surfaced of WhatsApp messages released by the abductors, threatening to harm the students.
The bandits’ new leader, in audio clips obtained, stated, “We are giving them seven days to release our people.”
Despite ongoing dialogues led by the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Defence Headquarters, and the Department of State Service, the situation remains tense.
The bandits are adamant about their conditions, including the release of specific commanders.
One of the bandits’ leaders warned, “Before they use force, tell them that we would slaughter at least three of the girls in the first instance and share the pictures for the world to see.”
Parents of the abducted students express deep concern. Dr. Ibrahim Mai Unguwa, a distressed father, appeals for a reconsideration of the government’s kinetic approach, fearing it could lead to the death of the students.
He said “I am personally appealing to the government to reconsider its decision and go for dialogue with the abductors so that our children can be set free.”
“The government should honour the request extended to it by the bandits. This is not the first time the government has swapped criminals with citizens. We have all seen what happened in Iraq and recently in Palestine; where prisoners were swapped between government and rebels.
Other parents echo similar sentiments, urging the government to prioritize dialogue over force.”
The Office of the National Security Adviser assures the public that the safety of the girls will not be compromised, citing collaborative efforts with security agencies.
The Department of State Services reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens, employing appropriate lawful means.
As the situation unfolds, concerns rise over the well-being of the abducted students, with reports indicating their weakened state due to malnutrition and other health issues.
