Oyo School Kidnap: ‘They’ll kill all the children if…’ – Defence Minister

By Tolulope Oke

The Federal Government has revealed why security forces could not immediately move against the bandits holding dozens of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State, with Defence Minister Christopher Musa disclosing that the kidnappers threatened to kill all the captives if troops advanced towards their hideout.

Musa, in a preview of an interview with News Central, said the bandits were using the abducted pupils and teachers as leverage in an attempt to force the release of their commanders currently in military custody.

According to the minister, the criminals issued a deadly warning when security forces prepared to take action against them.

“They are threatening that if we come any closer, they are going to kill all the kids,” Musa revealed.

The revelation comes nearly eight weeks after gunmen stormed Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and other schools in Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting 39 pupils and seven teachers.

Musa explained that the bandits’ demand was linked to the arrest of some of their commanders by security agencies, saying the criminals wanted to use the children as bargaining chips.

“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 commanders,” he said.

The Defence Minister’s disclosure has raised fresh concerns over the growing tactics of criminal groups, who increasingly target vulnerable civilians to pressure security agencies and government authorities.

Speaking on measures to tackle kidnapping and banditry, Musa backed tougher punishment for offenders, including the death penalty, arguing that weak sanctions have encouraged criminals to continue their activities.

“I think we should do that. There must be deterrence. The laws are soft, and that’s why people take advantage,” he said.

The government has continued efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers, while security agencies face pressure to balance rescue operations with protecting the lives of hostages.