Christopher Musa says abductors demanded the release of detained commanders and renewed his call for the death penalty for kidnappers and bandits
Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Christopher Musa, has disclosed that the kidnappers holding pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State threatened to kill the victims if security forces attempted a rescue operation.
According to the minister, the armed group warned that any military advance would lead to the execution of the hostages, forcing security agencies to exercise caution while exploring other options to secure their safe release.
Musa revealed that the abductors are allegedly demanding the release of some of their commanders currently in military custody, using the schoolchildren and teachers as bargaining chips.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15 from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and two other schools in Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area, triggering widespread concern and calls for urgent government intervention.
The Defence Minister also renewed his support for the death penalty for kidnappers and bandits, arguing that harsher punishments are necessary to deter violent crimes and curb the country’s growing insecurity.
He maintained that weak penalties have emboldened criminal groups and stressed the need for firm and certain sanctions, even as efforts continue to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.