Local government chairman Manniru Haidara Kaura disclosed that a sum was indeed paid, leading to the release of 18 individuals, mostly women and a young boy. However, most of those who were executed were said to be young people who died in a brutal manner. "They were slaughtered like rams," Kaura expressed in outrage following the tragedy.

The reasons behind the decision to kill the hostages remain unclear. "Only they [the gunmen] know why they killed them. They are senseless and heartless people," Kaura lamented. Sixteen of those freed are currently hospitalized due to injuries sustained during captivity. The bodies of the deceased victims are not expected to be returned, a common practice in these grim situations.

In response to the surging kidnapping crisis, Nigerian authorities passed a law in 2022 penalizing ransom payments with a minimum 15-year jail term, and abduction with death if victims perish. Nonetheless, this legislation has yet to be enforced, and families often resort to negotiated payments out of desperation for their loved ones' safety amid government inaction.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with a severe kidnapping epidemic, there are significant fears regarding public safety and the effectiveness of current laws aimed at curbing these violent acts.