Defence Minister Christopher Musa has disclosed that the terrorists who abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area (LGA) of Oyo state threatened to kill their captives if Nigerian security forces used maximum force to rescue them. Musa made the disclosure in a video interview with News Central TV, a preview of which was released on Wednesday, July 9, 2026.
Abduction Details and Escalation
On Friday, May 15, gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire LGA and abducted 39 pupils and seven teachers, including the principal of one of the affected schools. Days later, the terrorists brutally killed Michael Oyedokun, one of the kidnapped teachers, while he was in captivity. The abduction ignited widespread outrage on social media and triggered protests demanding the victims' release.
Minister’s Account of Threats
Speaking on the incident, Musa explained that the situation required caution. He said: "Unfortunately, bad things do happen. 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 can make us release their commanders. And now, we are threatened. When we wanted to take action against them, that if we come any closer, they are going to kill all the kids."
Ongoing Rescue Operations
Furthermore, the minister assured that operations are ongoing to rescue the abducted schoolchildren and teachers. He added that the country's security agents remain actively engaged in various operations across Oyo state’s volatile zones to address security challenges. The situation remains tense as authorities balance the need for a forceful response with the safety of the captives.
