The Muslim community in Oyo State has strongly condemned the Sharia-related demands reportedly made by terrorists holding abducted teachers and pupils from schools in Oriire Local Government Area, insisting that the criminals do not represent Islam or the Muslim faithful.
The condemnation came as public and private schools across all 33 local government areas of the state suspended academic activities in solidarity with the victims who remain in captivity.
The abductors, who attacked three schools in the Esiele, Yawota and Alawusa communities on May 15, reportedly demanded the release of detained terrorist commanders, payment of ransom, two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related laws before releasing the captives.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Ishaq Sanvni, and Secretary-General, Alhaji Murisiku Siyanbade, the Muslim community described the demands as criminal and completely contrary to Islamic teachings.
The group stressed that Islam forbids terrorism, kidnapping and extortion, noting that genuine Sharia promotes justice, peace and respect for human life.
According to the statement, terrorists cannot claim to speak for Muslims or represent Islamic values.
The community cited Quranic teachings on the sanctity of human life and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
Meanwhile, concern continues to grow over the fate of the victims.
The traditional ruler of Esiele, Oba Tajudeen Abioye, appealed to the government to intervene urgently and ensure the release of those being held.
“We are aware of the demands being made by the kidnappers, but there is little we can do. We are looking up to the government to act and rescue our people,” he said.
Schools Closed Across Oyo
As part of the growing response to the abduction, schools across Oyo State suspended academic activities.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers had earlier directed public primary and secondary schools to remain closed until the victims are rescued.
Private schools also joined the action, with school owners and administrators announcing a temporary shutdown as a mark of solidarity and a period of prayer for the abducted teachers and pupils.
Parents and school authorities expressed concern about the worsening security situation, particularly in rural communities where schools are considered more vulnerable to attacks.
Security Experts Divided on Government Response
Security experts have offered differing views on how the Federal Government should respond to the kidnappers’ demands.
Retired military officer Brigadier-General Bashir Adewinbi said the government faces a difficult decision, warning that paying ransom or releasing terrorist leaders could strengthen criminal groups and encourage future attacks.
According to him, any concession made to the kidnappers could provide them with resources to recruit more fighters and expand their operations.
Another retired military officer, Brigadier-General Peter Aro, argued that the government should first obtain proof that the victims are alive before making any major decisions. He noted that the prolonged captivity of children presents serious humanitarian concerns.
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Some experts also warned against public discussions that could assist the kidnappers, saying criminal groups often monitor media reports and public reactions.
Others insisted that releasing detained terrorist commanders would set a dangerous precedent and encourage more school abductions across the country.
Security analyst Abdulrazaq Hamzat maintained that government should not negotiate with terrorist groups, arguing that giving in to their demands only rewards violence and strengthens their networks.
He called for intelligence-driven rescue operations, stronger surveillance, disruption of ransom payment channels and increased support for affected families.
Government Remains Silent
The Oyo State Government has continued to withhold details of any ongoing negotiations or rescue efforts.
Speaking on the matter, the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said discussing operational strategies publicly would be unhelpful and could jeopardise efforts to secure the release of the victims.
He noted that the government remains focused on achieving the best possible outcome and appealed for patience while security agencies continue their work.
