The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has disclosed that the armed bandits who kidnapped pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo State have threatened to execute the victims if security personnel launch a rescue operation.
Musa made the revelation in a preview of an interview with News Central, released on Wednesday ahead of the full broadcast of the NC Exclusive programme scheduled for Friday.
According to the minister, the kidnappers are holding the children and teachers as leverage to demand the release of some of their commanders currently detained by the military.
He explained that the criminals believe abducting the schoolchildren would pressure the government into freeing their detained leaders.
“They are seeking leverage because some of their commanders are in our custody. They believe keeping these children hostage will force us to release their leader. They have also warned that any attempt by security forces to rescue the victims will result in the children being killed,” Musa stated.
The abduction occurred on May 15, when gunmen invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, along with two other schools in Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, and kidnapped 39 pupils and seven teachers. Nearly eight weeks after the incident, the victims remain in captivity.
Addressing the growing menace of kidnapping and banditry, Musa advocated for the death penalty for individuals convicted of kidnapping and terrorism, insisting that stricter punishment is essential to discourage such crimes.
He argued that Nigeria’s existing laws are not severe enough to deter criminals, adding that harsher penalties would send a strong message to offenders.
The minister’s position echoes recent remarks by former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, who backed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s proposal to introduce the death penalty for convicted kidnappers and bandits in Edo State.
“There must be consequences. Our laws are too lenient, and criminals exploit that weakness. People will think twice if they know serious punishment awaits those who commit these crimes,” Musa said.