The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has revealed that bandits holding abducted pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo State have threatened to kill the victims if security forces attempt a rescue operation.
Musa made the disclosure during a preview of an interview on News Central’s NC Exclusiveprogramme, stating that the kidnappers are demanding the release of some of their commanders currently in military custody.
According to the Defence Minister, the armed group is using the abducted children as leverage to pressure the Federal Government into a prisoner exchange.
“They are looking for leverage because we have some of their commanders with us, and they believe taking these children hostage will force us to release their commander,” Musa said.
He added that the kidnappers had warned they would kill the victims if security forces moved against them.
“They’re threatening that if we move any closer to take action against them, they’re going to kill all the kids,” he said.
The pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15 when gunmen attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, along with two other schools in Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. A total of 39 pupils and seven teachers were taken during the attack.
Speaking on efforts to combat kidnapping, terrorism and banditry across the country, Musa called for tougher punishment for convicted kidnappers and terrorists, including the death penalty.
He said stricter penalties would serve as a deterrent to criminals.
“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,” the minister said.
Musa’s comments come amid growing calls for stronger measures to address the rising cases of kidnapping and violent crimes across Nigeria.