Bandits Threatened To Kill Hostages If Troops Closed In, Says Defence Minister

Thursday July 9, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng

Another troubling update has emerged on the mass abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Christopher Musa, has revealed that the kidnappers threatened to kill the abducted children and teachers if security forces attempted a rescue operation.

According to him, the armed group is allegedly using the victims as bargaining chips, demanding the release of some of their commanders currently in military custody. He said security agencies had tried to move in but were forced to exercise caution after the abductors warned they would execute the hostages if troops advanced further.

The victims were abducted on May 15 from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and two other schools in Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Musa also renewed his call for tougher penalties against kidnappers and bandits, saying he supports the death penalty as a stronger deterrent to violent crime. He argued that weak punishments have emboldened criminal groups and that firm, certain sanctions are needed to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against kidnapping and insecurity.

The safety and safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers remain a matter of urgent national concern.

*TheGuardian