‘They Threatened to Kill the Children’ — Defence Minister Reveals Why Troops Exercised Restraint in Oyo Rescue Mission
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has disclosed that the terrorists behind the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State threatened to kill the victims if security agencies moved in to rescue them.
Musa made the revelation during a preview of an upcoming interview with News Central, where he explained that the kidnappers are using the abducted students and teachers as bargaining tools to demand the release of some of their commanders currently held by security authorities.
The Defence Minister said the criminals believe keeping the victims in captivity would pressure the government into freeing their detained leaders.
He stated that the terrorists warned security forces against approaching their location during rescue efforts, threatening to harm all the captives if any operation was launched.
The abduction occurred over 50 days ago when gunmen kidnapped 39 pupils and seven teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, alongside victims from two other schools in Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Musa assured that the government is intensifying efforts to tackle kidnapping and banditry across the country. He also expressed support for tougher punishments, including the death penalty for convicted criminals involved in serious violent offences.
According to the Minister, stronger laws and stricter enforcement are necessary to discourage individuals from engaging in acts of terrorism and other violent crimes.
