IBADAN, Nigeria — A school principal held captive in Oyo State has appealed to the Federal Government to pursue dialogue with kidnappers, warning that a planned military rescue could endanger the lives of dozens of abductees.
In a video released by the armed gang, Rachael Alamu, one of the victims, said tensions in the kidnappers’ camp had escalated after reports that soldiers were deployed to secure their release. “We learned that yesterday some army was sent, and that has compounded our problems. It has added to our troubles,” she said, her voice trembling.
Alamu revealed that the kidnappers had already selected one captive for possible execution, accusing authorities of choosing force over negotiation. “We are pleading with you not to force yourself into the bush, but please call them and dialogue with them so that the problem can be solved, and we will be able to go home alive,” she said.
The abductors, she added, threatened to kill all hostages if security personnel returned. “They have promised to kill all of us if any of the armies come into the bush again. Please, we are pleading with you. We are begging you in the name of God,” she said.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier ordered the deployment of security forces to rescue the victims, a move welcomed by some Nigerians but criticized by others who fear it could provoke retaliation. The abduction, which took place last week, involved pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo State, adding to a string of mass kidnappings that have plagued Nigeria in recent years.
Similar incidents have occurred across the country. In 2021, gunmen abducted more than 300 schoolgirls in Zamfara State, sparking nationwide outrage. In 2014, Boko Haram’s abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls drew global condemnation and highlighted the risks of military intervention without negotiation.
Reactions to the Oyo crisis have been divided. Security analysts argue that dialogue may embolden criminal groups, while others insist negotiations are the only way to save lives in the immediate term. Civil society groups have urged the government to balance force with diplomacy, noting that past rescue attempts have sometimes led to casualties.
On social media, Nigerians expressed both fear and frustration. “Dialogue is the only option now. Lives are at stake,” one user wrote. Another countered: “We cannot keep negotiating with criminals. The government must show strength.” Faith leaders called for prayers, while parents of abducted children pleaded for restraint.
The Oyo abduction underscores Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with insecurity, where kidnappings for ransom have become a lucrative enterprise for armed groups. As the government weighs its next steps, families of the victims remain caught between hope and dread, praying that dialogue or rescue whichever path is chosen will bring their loved ones home alive.
