Oyo Muslim Community Rejects Sharia Demands Linked to School Kidnappers, Says Terrorists Do Not Represent Islam

The Muslim Community in Oyo State has publicly dissociated itself from reported Sharia-related demands made by terrorists holding abducted teachers and pupils from schools in Oriire Local Government Area, stressing that the criminals behind the attack do not represent Islam in any form.

The clarification comes amid growing concern over the safety of schoolchildren and teachers abducted during coordinated attacks on communities in Oyo State on May 15, an incident that has left families, residents, and authorities in prolonged anxiety as rescue efforts continue.

Terrorists’ Demands Spark Controversy

Reports indicated that the abductors had made a series of demands, including the release of detained terrorist commanders, payment of ransom, provision of two Hilux vehicles, and the implementation of Sharia-related provisions as conditions for the release of the victims.

The inclusion of religious demands in the negotiations has sparked outrage and concern across religious and civic groups, with many warning against attempts to politicise or distort faith to justify criminal activity.

“Terrorism Has No Religious Identity” — Muslim Leaders

In a strongly worded statement issued by the Muslim Community of Oyo State, the group rejected any association between Islam and the actions of the kidnappers, describing their conduct as criminal, inhumane, and entirely contrary to Islamic teachings.

The statement was jointly signed by the Chairman, Alhaji Ishaq Sanvni, and the Secretary-General, Alhaji Murisiku Siyanbade.

According to the group, kidnapping, extortion, violence, and the targeting of innocent civilians stand in direct opposition to the core principles of Islam, which emphasize peace, justice, and the sanctity of human life.

The community stressed that “terrorists do not represent Islamic values and cannot speak for Muslims,” adding that any attempt to justify such acts under religious pretence is a deliberate misrepresentation of the faith.

It further cited Islamic teachings, including references to the Holy Qur’an, noting that the protection of innocent lives remains a central obligation in Islam.

Schools Shut as Solidarity Grows

Meanwhile, schools across all 33 local government areas of Oyo State have been shut down in solidarity with the abducted pupils and teachers still in captivity.

The closure reflects the depth of fear and concern spreading across the state as families continue to await updates on rescue efforts nearly three weeks after the attack.

Communities affected by the incident have remained tense, with residents calling for stronger security presence and urgent government intervention.

Traditional Ruler Appeals for Urgent Action

The Eleshi of Esiele, Oba Tajudeen Abioye, has also appealed to both the Federal and Oyo State governments to intensify efforts toward securing the release of the victims.

The monarch acknowledged that the abductors have made demands but noted that local communities lack the capacity to resolve the situation independently.

He urged authorities not to relent until all the abducted pupils and teachers are safely rescued and reunited with their families.

Rising Concern Over Security

The incident has further heightened national concern over school kidnappings and insecurity in parts of the country, with stakeholders continuing to call for coordinated and decisive action to prevent further attacks and ensure the safe return of all victims.