Bandits Threaten to Kill Abducted Pupils in Oyo State

Defence Minister Musa revealed that bandits who kidnapped 39 pupils and seven teachers from the Baptist nursery and primary school in Yawota, Oyo State, on May 15, threatened to kill the victims if military troops moved closer to their hideout. Musa made this disclosure in a preview clip of an interview with New Central, which is set to be fully broadcast on Friday.

He explained that the abductors use the kidnapped children as leverage in negotiations, threatening to harm them if the military takes action. Musa also advocated for the death penalty for bandits involved in kidnappings, arguing that the absence of strict punishment encourages crime, as criminals feel they can act without fear of severe consequences.