(Christopher Musa. Photo by PM News)
The Federal Government has explained why security forces have not moved immediately against the b@ndits holding dozens of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State, with Defence Minister Christopher Musa disclosing that the kidn@ppers threatened to k!ll all the captives if troops advanced towards their hideout.
Musa, in a preview of an interview with News Central, said the b@ndits 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 move against them, revealing that they threatened to k!ll all the children if approached any further.
The disclosure 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 b@ndits’ 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, adding that for whatever reason.
They are seeking leverage because some of their commanders are in custody and they believe holding the children to ransom will force the release of those commanders.
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 kidn@pping and b@nditry, Musa backed tougher punishment for offenders, including the death penalty, arguing that weak sanctions have emboldened criminals to continue their activities. He said there must be deterrence, noting that the laws are soft, and that is why people take advantage.
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 the hostages.
The abductors Oriire teachers and schoolchildren threatened to kill the kids if we come closer – Defence Minister, Rtd General Chris Musa speaks about the Oyo kidnap victims. pic.twitter.com/O6hzkusMYb
— Ọ̀YỌ́ M’ÈSÌ Ọ̀RỌ̀ (@oyomesioro) July 9, 2026