The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has revealed that bandits holding dozens of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State have threatened to kill the victims if security forces launch a rescue operation.
Musa disclosed this in a preview of an interview with News Central released on Wednesday ahead of its scheduled broadcast on Friday.
According to the minister, the kidnappers are using the abducted schoolchildren as bargaining tools to demand 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, and they feel taking these kids and holding them to ransom will make us release their commander,” Musa said.
“Now they’re threatening that if we move any closer to take action against them, they’re going to kill all the kids.”
The disclosure comes nearly eight weeks after armed men invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and two other schools in Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting 39 pupils and seven teachers on May 15.
The incident triggered outrage and renewed concerns over the security of schools, particularly in rural communities vulnerable to attacks by armed groups.
Although security agencies have continued efforts to secure the release of the victims, the minister's remarks suggest that authorities are facing difficult decisions in balancing military action with the safety of the captives.
Musa also used the opportunity to advocate stricter punishment for kidnapping and terrorism, arguing that existing laws are insufficient to deter criminal elements.
Backing calls for capital punishment for convicted kidnappers and terrorists, the minister said severe sanctions were necessary to stem the growing wave of abductions and violent crimes across the country.
“I think we should do that. There must be deterrence. The laws are soft, and that’s why people take advantage. If they know once you commit an offence, there must be punishment,” he stated.
His position aligns with recent calls by former Edo State governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, who endorsed a proposal by Governor Monday Okpebholo for the introduction of the death penalty for kidnappers and bandits in Edo State.
Kidnapping for ransom has remained one of Nigeria's most persistent security challenges, with criminal gangs increasingly targeting schools, communities and travellers despite ongoing military operations against armed groups across several parts of the country.
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