The Muslim community in Oyo State has strongly condemned reported demands by terrorists holding abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, insisting that the criminals do not represent Islam and cannot use religion to justify their actions.
The development comes amid growing anxiety over the fate of the victims and an unprecedented shutdown of public and private schools across Oyo State in solidarity with those still being held captive.
The abductees were taken on May 15 when armed terrorists attacked schools in the Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa communities of Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State. Since then, concerns have intensified as negotiations and rescue efforts continue behind the scenes.
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Reports indicate that the kidnappers are demanding the release of detained terrorist commanders, ransom payments, two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related law before releasing the captives.
Reacting to the reported conditions, the Muslim Community of Oyo State distanced Islam from the demands, describing the actions of the abductors as criminal and contrary to the teachings of the faith.
“Islam forbids kidnapping, terrorism and the extortion of innocent citizens. Legitimate Sharia promotes justice, peace and the sanctity of human life,” the group stated.
The organisation stressed that terrorists could not speak on behalf of Muslims and warned against attempts to use religion as a tool to legitimise violence.
The condemnation coincided with a statewide closure of schools as teachers, students, parents and education stakeholders rallied support for the safe return of the victims.
Public schools and many private institutions suspended activities, citing security concerns and solidarity with affected families.
A traditional ruler in the area, the Eleshi of Esiele, Oba Tajudeen Abioye, appealed to the government to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims.
“We are aware of the ransom demands of the terrorists, but we are helpless. We are looking up to the government and pleading for intervention,” the monarch said.
Security experts have warned against decisions that could strengthen terrorist networks.
Retired Brigadier-General Bashir Adewinbi described the situation as a difficult dilemma for authorities, noting that paying ransom or releasing terrorist commanders could embolden criminal groups and finance future attacks.
Another retired military officer, Brigadier-General Peter Aro, urged authorities to first establish proof that the abductees remain alive before making strategic decisions, warning that prolonged captivity poses severe risks, particularly for children.
Reports have identified two of the individuals allegedly being demanded by the terrorists as Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, and his deputy, Abubakar Abba, both linked to the Ansaru terrorist group and currently facing terrorism-related trials before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Despite mounting public pressure, the Oyo State Government has maintained silence on the details of ongoing negotiations.
Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said discussing government strategy publicly would be unhelpful and could affect efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.
As the crisis enters another critical phase, residents, parents and community leaders continue to call for intensified rescue efforts and stronger security measures to prevent further attacks on schools across Oyo state.
