Bandits Warn Troops Against Rescue Bid, Threaten to Kill Abducted Oyo Pupils

The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has revealed that bandits holding pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State have threatened to kill the captives if security forces move closer to their hideout.

Musa made the disclosure in a preview of an interview with News Central, released on Wednesday ahead of the full broadcast scheduled for Friday on the station’s NC Exclusive programme.

According to the minister, the kidnappers are using the abducted schoolchildren and teachers as bargaining chips to secure the release of some of their commanders currently in military custody.

“For whatever reason, they are looking for leverage because we have some of their commanders with us. They believe taking these children and holding them hostage will compel us to release their commanders,” he said.

He added that the criminals had warned security operatives against attempting a rescue mission.

“They have threatened that if we move any closer to their location, they will kill all the children,” Musa stated.

The minister’s comments come nearly eight weeks after armed men abducted 39 pupils and seven teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and two other schools in Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, on May 15.

Speaking on efforts to tackle the growing menace of banditry and kidnapping across the country, Musa advocated the death penalty for convicted kidnappers and bandits, arguing that stronger punishments are needed to deter violent crimes.

“There must be deterrence. Our laws are too lenient, and that is why criminals continue to exploit the system. Once people know there are serious consequences for such offences, it will serve as a strong deterrent,” he said.