The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), has disclosed that bandits holding abducted pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo State have threatened to kill the victims if security forces move closer to rescue them.
Musa made the disclosure in a preview of an interview with News Central released on Wednesday ahead of the full broadcast on the NC Exclusive programme.
According to the minister, the kidnappers are using the abducted children and teachers as leverage to demand the release 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,” Musa said.
He added that the bandits had warned that any attempt by troops to advance towards their location could lead to the killing of the victims.
The development comes nearly eight weeks after gunmen abducted 39 pupils and seven teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, as well as two other schools in Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, on May 15.
Speaking on efforts to tackle kidnapping and banditry, Musa expressed support for the death penalty for convicted kidnappers and terrorists, arguing that stronger punishments are needed to discourage criminal activities.
His position aligns with recent calls by former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, who supported proposals for tougher penalties against kidnappers and bandits.
“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,” Musa said.
