Defence Minister: Bandits Threaten To Kill Abducted Oyo Pupils If Troops Advance

The Federal Government has disclosed that the armed group holding dozens of abducted pupils and teachers from Oyo State has threatened to kill the captives if security forces attempt to rescue them by force.

Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), made the disclosure during an interview on News Central, saying the kidnappers were using the children as human shields to frustrate ongoing rescue efforts.

According to the minister, intelligence available to security agencies indicates that the abductors are also seeking the release of some 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.

"Now they're threatening that if we move any closer to take action against them, they're going to kill all the kids," Musa said.

The minister's remarks provide fresh insight into the challenges confronting security agencies as they work to secure the safe release of the victims without endangering their lives.

The victims were abducted on May 15 after gunmen attacked three schools in Yawota and Esiele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. A total of 46 pupils and teachers were reportedly taken during the coordinated attack, triggering widespread concern and repeated calls for urgent government intervention.

Since the abduction, security agencies have maintained that efforts are ongoing to secure the victims' release, while authorities have remained cautious about disclosing operational details.

Musa did not provide details on the military's operational strategy or indicate whether negotiations with the kidnappers were underway.

However, his comments suggest that security agencies are carefully balancing the need to rescue the captives with the risk posed by the abductors' threats.

The latest disclosure comes amid growing public concern over the prolonged captivity of the pupils and renewed calls for intensified efforts to secure their safe return.

Authorities have continued to assure Nigerians that all necessary measures are being taken to rescue the victims and bring those responsible to justice.