A Federal High Court in Abuja has heard that members of the proscribed terrorist group, Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan (ANSARU), carried out the May 15 attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State to pressure the Federal Government into releasing detained leaders.
A Department of State Services (DSS) operative, identified as BBB, disclosed this on Monday while testifying as the second prosecution witness in the trial of five men accused of involvement in the attacks.
The witness told the court that the group kidnapped students and teachers and submitted a list of 30 members, including its leaders, demanding their release or threatening to kill the captives. He alleged that the operation was part of ANSARU’s strategy to force the government to free detained members.
According to the witness, the group relocated its captives to a forest near the Old Oyo National Park, where security operatives later launched a rescue operation. He said two victims were killed before the rescue, while security personnel also lost their lives during the operation.
The witness further alleged that the group had planned other attacks, including an attempt to abduct a member of the House of Representatives, as part of efforts to secure the release of its leaders.
The five defendants are facing trial over their alleged involvement in the attacks. The court adjourned the case until Tuesday for continuation of hearing.
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