Bandits Threatened To Kill Abducted Oyo Pupils If Troops Moved In – Defence Minister
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has disclosed that bandits who abducted pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo State threatened to kill the captives if security forces attempted to rescue them through a military operation.
According to the minister, the kidnappers warned that any advance by troops towards their hideout would result in the execution of the victims, forcing security agencies to adopt a more cautious strategy aimed at securing their safe release.
Musa revealed that the armed group is demanding the release of some of its commanders currently in military custody as a condition for freeing the abducted pupils and teachers.
He explained that the Federal Government remains committed to rescuing the victims alive and is carefully weighing its options to avoid actions that could endanger their lives.
The Defence Minister stressed that security agencies are continuing intelligence-driven operations while monitoring the situation closely to ensure the captives are rescued safely.
He also reiterated the government’s determination not to allow criminal groups to dictate the nation’s security agenda, assuring Nigerians that every available effort is being deployed to bring the abducted pupils and teachers home unharmed.
Musa maintained that while negotiations and other non-kinetic measures may be explored where necessary to save lives, the military will continue to pursue terrorists and bandits across the country to dismantle their networks and restore security.
His comments come amid growing concern over the rising wave of school abductions and attacks on communities, with renewed calls for stronger measures to curb kidnapping and banditry across Nigeria.