Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), has disclosed a disturbing threat from bandits holding dozens of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State, warning that the victims could be killed if security operatives attempt a rescue mission.
Musa made the revelation in a preview of an interview with News Central shared on Wednesday ahead of its full broadcast on Friday.
According to the Defence Minister, the kidnappers are allegedly using the schoolchildren as leverage to force 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.
“Now they’re threatening that if we move any closer to take action against them, they’re going to kill all the kids,” Musa stated.
The alarming disclosure comes nearly eight weeks after armed men stormed Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, alongside two other schools in Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting 39 pupils and seven teachers on May 15.
Amid growing concerns over kidnapping and banditry, Musa also threw his weight behind calls for the death penalty for convicted kidnappers and terrorists, insisting that stronger punishments are needed to discourage such crimes.
“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 said.
His stance echoes recent calls by former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, who supported proposals for capital punishment against kidnappers and bandits.
The latest revelation has intensified concerns over the fate of the abducted pupils and teachers as authorities continue efforts to secure their safe return.
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