The Senator representing Oyo North Senatorial District, Abdulfatai Buhari, has revealed that the pupils abducted by gunmen in parts of Oyo State are allegedly being used as human shields by their captors, making rescue operations extremely delicate and challenging.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme, the lawmaker explained that security agencies are exercising caution to avoid actions that could jeopardize the lives of the abducted children.
According to Buhari, the kidnappers strategically positioned the children around themselves after moving into a dense forest, thereby making any direct military intervention highly risky.
“The children were reportedly placed around the abductors, effectively serving as human shields. Any reckless attempt to launch an attack could have resulted in tragic consequences for the victims,” he stated.
The senator emphasized that the operation differs significantly from conventional warfare, noting that the safety of the hostages remains the primary consideration for security agencies.
He further disclosed that efforts to locate and rescue the victims have been complicated by the vast and difficult terrain of the forest where the abductors are believed to be hiding.
Buhari explained that the forest corridor stretches across several states, including Oyo, Kwara, Niger, Kebbi, and Sokoto, while also connecting routes close to Nigeria’s borders with neighbouring countries.
“The forest is extensive and difficult to navigate. The challenge is that the kidnappers are constantly on the move and do not remain in a single location, making tracking operations extremely difficult,” he said.
The lawmaker also alleged that some of the criminal elements operating within the forest are foreign nationals who move across borders and exploit the difficult terrain to evade security forces.
Meanwhile, Buhari disclosed that a Federal Government delegation recently visited affected families to offer support and condolences, particularly to relatives of victims impacted by the attack.
He noted that the delegation met with families of the abducted pupils as well as relatives of individuals who lost their lives during the incident.
According to him, the emotional toll on affected families remains significant, with many desperately hoping for the safe return of their loved ones.
The senator reiterated the need for a carefully coordinated rescue strategy that prioritizes the safety of the abducted pupils while ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.
The abduction has continued to generate concern across Oyo State, especially within communities in the Ogbomoso axis, where residents have intensified calls for stronger security measures and urgent intervention to secure the release of the victims.
