Nearly 300 kidnapped Nigerian schoolchildren abducted in Kaduna state have been released after more than two weeks. The release was not without controversy as ransom payments are common in such cases, despite officials denying it. The abductors are believed to be bandit groups operating in the conflict-battered northern region.
Key Points
At least 1,400 students have been kidnapped from Nigerian schools since 2014.
Bandit groups operating in the northern region are often responsible for mass kidnappings and killings.
Pros
The kidnapped schoolchildren have been released unharmed.
Cons
Ransom payments are common in such cases, despite officials denying it.