The kidnappers of students and faculty at Oriire, Oyo State, on May 15th were terrorists, and President Bola Tinubu has addressed their main demands.
While meeting with Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, and the Oyo State Council of Obas at the Presidential Villa on Thursday, President Tinubu stated that the attackers wanted the government to free some of their members who were arrested.
He added that the kidnappers of the Oriire students had demanded ransom, but that the authorities had turned down their demands.
Terrorists reportedly reached out to victims’ relatives with demands, but the government responded with a “no deal,” effectively ending any chance of discussion, according to the president.
“The kidnappers of the Oriire students and faculty wanted us to free their members who were already in custody,” he stated. That was among the terms they were imposing, along with the money they were seeking.
Not only did we say no, but we also refuse to bargain with lawbreakers. After they murdered a teacher, we were prepared to “finish” with their relatives.
“Not all of them are Nigerian. The Niger Republic, Burkina Faso, and Mali all have the same issue. Our problems are becoming worse as a result. That’s why it’s crucial to strengthen the forest guards’ capabilities and establish state police.”