Fresh details have emerged about the conditions reportedly set by terrorists holding pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The abductors, who attacked schools in Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa communities on May 15, are said to have demanded the release of two detained terror commanders, payment of ransom, provision of two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of a Sharia-related legal framework.
The development comes as security agencies continue efforts to secure the release of the victims while the Oyo State Government remains tight-lipped on negotiations.
According to reports, the terrorists are seeking the release of Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a or Abbas Mukhtar, and his deputy, Abubakar Abba, also known as Isah Adam or Mahmud Al-Nigeri.
The duo are alleged leaders of Ansaru, a breakaway faction of Boko Haram linked to several terrorist activities across Nigeria.
Both men are currently standing trial on terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Usman was previously sentenced to 15 years imprisonment on an illegal mining charge after admitting that proceeds from the operation were used to finance terrorism and arms procurement.
Sources familiar with the negotiations also claimed the abductors are demanding a ransom reportedly put at ₦1 billion, although authorities have not officially confirmed the figure.
The terrorists are also said to be demanding two Hilux vehicles.
Security experts have warned that granting such demands could strengthen extremist groups and encourage future attacks.
Retired Brigadier-General Bashir Adewinbi warned that paying ransom or releasing terror suspects could embolden criminal groups and finance additional acts of violence.
Retired Brigadier-General Peter Aro urged authorities to first establish proof that the victims remain alive before any major decisions are taken.
The abduction turned more tragic after the terrorists reportedly released a video showing the killing of Michael Oyedokun, a mathematics teacher at Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele.
Oyo State’s Governor, Governor Seyi Makinde later confirmed the teacher’s death and pledged continued efforts to secure the safe release of the remaining captives.
The Oyo State Government has declined to comment directly on the reported demands, saying it would be unhelpful to disclose its strategy while rescue efforts remain ongoing.
Families of the abducted pupils and teachers continue to wait anxiously as security agencies intensify efforts to secure their freedom.
