54 Days in Captivity: Terrorists Demand Commanders’ Release, Threaten Oyo and Borno Schoolchildren
Fifty-four days after terrorists abducted schoolchildren in coordinated attacks in Oyo and Borno states, many of the children remain in captivity despite ongoing rescue efforts by security agencies.
The latest update came from the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, who revealed that the terrorists holding the Oyo schoolchildren are demanding the release of some of their commanders currently in military custody. He said the abductors have threatened to kill the captives if troops attempt a rescue operation.
According to the minister, the group is using the children as leverage to secure the release of detained terrorist leaders. The identities of the commanders being demanded have not been disclosed.
Governor Seyi Makinde recently said security personnel searching for the captives encountered improvised explosive devices planted by the terrorists, leaving some operatives injured. He also confirmed that six suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack and insisted that security operations would continue.
In Borno State, schoolchildren abducted from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira-Uba Local Government Area also remain in captivity 54 days after their abduction. Although security agencies are continuing efforts to rescue them, no official announcement of their release has been made.
The prolonged captivity of the children has intensified calls for their safe return and renewed concern over the security of schools across Nigeria.
