Terrorists Don’t Represent Islam, Oyo Muslims React To Sharia Demand Over Abducted Pupils, Teachers

The Muslim Community of Oyo State has dissociated itself from terrorists who reportedly demanded the implementation of Sharia law as part of the conditions for the release of teachers and pupils abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The group described the demand as a distortion of Islamic teachings, stressing that kidnapping, terrorism and extortion are contrary to the principles of Islam.

The condemnation follows the abduction of dozens of teachers and pupils during coordinated attacks on three schools in Esiele, Yawota and Alawusa communities on May 15, a development that has heightened concerns over insecurity in parts of the state.

Reports indicated that the abductors demanded the release of detained terrorist commanders, payment of ransom, two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related laws before freeing the victims.

In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Ishaq Sanvni, and Secretary-General, Alhaji Murisiku Siyanbade, the Muslim Community of Oyo State rejected any attempt to associate the criminal acts of the abductors with Islam.

The organisation maintained that terrorists neither represent Muslims nor speak on behalf of the Islamic faith.

“Islam forbids kidnapping, terrorism and the extortion of innocent citizens. Legitimate Sharia promotes justice, peace and the sanctity of human life, values that stand in direct opposition to the activities of criminal groups,” the statement said.

The group added that the terrorists’ effort to justify their demands through religious rhetoric was a gross misrepresentation of Islamic teachings.

“Terrorists do not represent Islamic values and cannot speak for Muslims,” it stated.

Citing Chapter 5 Verse 32 of the Holy Qur’an, the community emphasised that Islam places great importance on the protection of human life and called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted teachers and pupils.

The statement came as schools across Oyo State’s 33 local government areas reportedly shut down in solidarity with the victims and their families.

The incident has renewed calls for stronger security measures to safeguard schools and rural communities from terrorist attacks and other security threats.