The Muslim community in Oyo State has rejected demands reportedly made by terrorists who abducted teachers and pupils from schools in Oriire Local Government Area, insisting that Islam does not support kidnapping, terrorism, or the extortion of innocent citizens.
The community condemned the kidnappers for allegedly attempting to use religion to justify their actions and demands, describing such claims as a gross misrepresentation of Islamic teachings and values.
In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the Muslim Community of Oyo State, Alhaji Ishaq Sanvni, and the Secretary-General, Alhaji Murisiku Siyanbade, the group stressed that no criminal act could be justified under Islam.
According to the statement, the demand for the implementation of Sharia law as part of the conditions for the release of the abducted victims is both unacceptable and contrary to the true principles of the religion.
“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 read.
The Muslim leaders emphasized that individuals engaged in terrorism and kidnapping cannot claim to represent Islam or speak on behalf of the Muslim community.
“Terrorists do not represent Islamic values and cannot speak for Muslims,” the group declared, adding that Islam places a high premium on the protection of human life and human dignity.
To support its position, the organisation referenced Chapter 5, Verse 32 of the Holy Qur’an, which underscores the sanctity of life and condemns the unlawful killing or harming of innocent people.
The condemnation comes amid growing concern over the fate of teachers and pupils abducted during coordinated attacks on three schools located in the Esiele, Yawota, and Alawusa communities of Oriire Local Government Area on May 15.
Reports indicate that the kidnappers not only demanded ransom payments and the release of detained terrorist commanders but also requested two Toyota Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related laws before releasing the captives.
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The unusual demands have generated widespread outrage and concern among residents, religious leaders, civil society groups, and other stakeholders across the country.
Meanwhile, public and private schools across Oyo State’s 33 local government areas reportedly shut down in solidarity with the abducted victims and to draw attention to the worsening security situation affecting educational institutions.
The Muslim community called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice, while urging the public not to associate the actions of criminal elements with the Islamic faith.
The group reiterated that Islam is a religion founded on peace, justice, compassion, and respect for human life, noting that any attempt by terrorists to exploit religious sentiments for criminal purposes should be firmly rejected by all Nigerians.
