Retired Generals Back Intelligence-Led Rescue Of Oyo Schoolchildren, Teachers

Some retired senior military officers have said the reported intelligence breakthrough in the search for abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State has increased pressure on the kidnappers.

According to Vanguard, they said the development could hasten the release of the victims if sustained.

A retired Major General, Eniola Gbadamosi, said identifying and tracing the kidnappers’ associates had placed the criminal network on the defensive.

Gbadamosi said, “If security agencies have indeed identified and located members of the kidnappers’ support network, that is a major operational advantage. Criminal groups rely heavily on logistics, communication and local collaborators. Once those networks are disrupted, they become vulnerable, make mistakes and are more likely to release their captives.”

He, however, warned against premature celebration.

He added, “The priority must remain the safe return of the children and their teachers. Intelligence-led operations are usually more effective than direct confrontation in situations like this.”

Ex-General Praises Security Synergy

A retired Brigadier General, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the reported progress showed growing cooperation among the military, the Department of State Services and other security agencies.

He said, “Modern counter-kidnapping operations are driven by intelligence rather than brute force. The fact that security agencies have reportedly identified the kidnappers’ associates suggests they are gradually dismantling the network behind the crime.

“The Chief of Army Staff’s assurance that troops are making tremendous progress should reassure the families of the victims.”

He urged Nigerians to give security agencies the operational space needed to complete the mission.

He added, “The ultimate measure of success will be the safe rescue of every child and teacher.”

However, another retired Brigadier General from the North cautioned against publicising operational breakthroughs while the rescue mission was ongoing.

He warned that such disclosures could help the kidnappers.

“While the reported intelligence breakthrough is encouraging, operational details should be handled with extreme caution. Such disclosures could signal to the kidnappers that they have been compromised, prompting them to relocate the hostages, alter their plans or frustrate the operation,” he said.

The retired officer said operational secrecy remained crucial in rescue missions.

“The cardinal principle in operations of this nature is surprise. You take the criminals by surprise, conclude the operation successfully, and only afterwards disclose the strategy that led to the breakthrough.

“Operational secrecy remains one of the most potent weapons in counter-kidnapping missions, particularly when the lives of innocent children are at stake,” he added.