Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), has disclosed that bandits holding abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State have threatened to kill the victims if security forces attempt a rescue operation.
Musa made the revelation in a preview of an interview with News Central, scheduled to air on the station’s NC Exclusive programme.
According to the minister, the kidnappers are using the abducted schoolchildren as leverage to demand the release of some of their commanders currently in military custody, The News Edition reports.
“They believe holding the children hostage will force the authorities to release their commanders. They have also threatened to kill the children if security forces move closer to carry out a rescue operation,” Musa said.
The incident occurred on May 15 when gunmen abducted 39 pupils and seven teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, alongside two other schools in Esinle, located in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Defence Minister Supports Death Penalty for Kidnappers
Speaking on efforts to tackle rising cases of kidnapping and banditry, the defence minister expressed support for the death penalty for individuals convicted of kidnapping and terrorism-related offences.
Musa argued that stronger punishments are necessary to discourage criminal activities and improve national security.
“There must be deterrence. The laws are too weak, and criminals take advantage of that. People must know there are serious consequences for such crimes,” he stated.
His position aligns with recent calls by former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, who backed proposals for capital punishment for kidnappers and bandits.
The latest development highlights the growing security concerns surrounding school abductions and the challenges security agencies face in securing the safe release of victims without endangering lives.