Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has distanced controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi from the release of the schoolchildren abducted in Kuriga area of the state.

Sani said Gumi had offered to negotiate with the bandits for the release of the student but was not involved.

He disclosed this on Channels Television’s programme, Sunday Politics.

Bandits had abducted 137 schoolchildren on March 7, 2024, from Chikun Local Government Area of the state.

In the wee hours of Sunday, the governor announced the release of the abducted pupils.

Confirming the report, the Nigerian Military said the pupils were rescued from Zamfara State.

However, Sani dismissed claims that ransom was paid to effect the release of the pupils.

Sani said, “All those speculations you are hearing today are figment of some people’s imagination.

“I can tell you that without any fear of contradiction. There was nothing like Gumi in this operation. I can tell you. I won’t undermine the efforts of our Armed Forces.”