Oyo kidnappings: Why security agencies can’t attack bandits – Buhari
Senator Warns of Risks to Abducted Schoolchildren in Oyo State
Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, who represents Oyo North, has raised alarms about the potential risks to 47 schoolchildren abducted in Oyo State. He cautioned that any military attempt to rescue the children could lead to their deaths, as the kidnappers are reportedly using them as human shields.
The children were taken from schools in Ogbomosho and Oriire Local Government Areas. In a recent appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time, Buhari highlighted the complex nature of the situation, noting that the armed individuals have established a mobile base within dense forests spanning multiple states, including Oyo, Kwara, Niger, Kebbi, and Sokoto.
“The terrain is challenging, with no clear boundaries, making tracking the kidnappers exceptionally difficult,” Buhari explained. He emphasized that these groups frequently change locations, complicating rescue efforts.
Buhari also shared details regarding a visit he made with a federal government delegation to the families of the victims. He described the anguish of one family whose member had been brutally killed, recounting their desperate hope for closure, particularly in relation to the whereabouts of their deceased relative.
The senator noted that the initial strategy of the kidnappers involved surrounding themselves with the captives, especially during adverse weather conditions. He expressed concern that any military intervention could inadvertently lead to tragedy for the children. “If an attack is launched, there is a serious risk that all 47 children could be killed,” he stated.
Buhari reiterated that the situation is not akin to conventional warfare, as the attackers operate with tactics that prioritize the safety of their captives at the expense of their own. The urgency for a well-considered response remains evident as the families of the abducted children continue to seek answers and assistance.
