Nigeria’s Minister of Defence Christopher Musa says bandits who abducted pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo State threatened to kill their captives if troops moved any closer to their camp.guardian+2
Musa disclosed this while giving an update on the rescue efforts for dozens of pupils and teachers taken during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area. He said the terrorists warned that any attempt by the military to advance on their location would lead to the execution of some of the children.premiumtimesng+1
According to the minister the threat forced security agencies to adjust their tactics so as not to endanger the hostages. He explained that operations on the ground focused on blocking escape routes gathering intelligence and using caution instead of a direct assault that could provoke the abductors.punchng+1
Musa also confirmed that the kidnappers demanded the release of some of their detained commanders as part of their conditions. He stressed that government policy does not support freeing high profile terror suspects and said the priority remains to secure the victims’ release without strengthening the armed groups.
The minister noted that troops and other security agencies are still deployed in the affected areas and are working with local authorities and community sources. He added that recent operations across different theatres have led to the neutralisation and arrest of many terrorists and the rescue of several kidnap victims even as efforts continue in Oyo.
The fresh details have deepened public concern over the safety of the abducted pupils and teachers and renewed criticism of the wider security situation in schools across the country. Lawmakers teachers’ unions and community leaders have been calling for stronger protection measures including permanent security bases in vulnerable areas and better early warning systems
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