Students, Teachers’ Abduction: Oyo Muslims Reject Terrorists’ Sharia Demand

The Muslim community in Oyo State has condemned attempts by kidnappers to justify criminal activities with references to Sharia, insisting that terrorists and abductors do not represent Islam or speak on behalf of Muslims.

In a statement issued yesterday by the chairman of the Muslim community in the state, Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni, and the secretary-general, Alhaji Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade, described the recent Sharia-related demands reportedly made by abductors as a distortion of Islamic teachings and values.

They expressed concern over the victims’ condition, noted that some of those abducted are toddlers as young as two years old and described their ordeal in captivity as heartbreaking.

According to the group, Islam strictly prohibits kidnapping, terrorism and the extortion of innocent citizens, stressing that no criminal act can be justified under the guise of religion.

The community stated that legitimate Sharia promotes justice, peace and the protection of human life, principles it said are directly opposed to violence and criminality.

Citing the holy qur’an, the group referenced chapter 5, verse 32, which teaches that taking an innocent life is comparable to killing all of humanity, while saving a life is akin to saving mankind.

The statement quoted the verse as saying: “Therefore, We have ordained that he who slays a soul for spreading mischief on earth shall be as if he had slain all mankind and he who saves a life shall be as if he had given life t

The community further expressed support for security agencies and called on relevant authorities to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and secure the release of those abducted.

It also appreciated the intervention efforts of the Oyo state government and the federal government while offering prayers for security agencies engaged in rescue operations.

The community urged residents of Oyo state, particularly Muslims, to remain vigilant, report suspicious movements and reject attempts to associate Islam with violence.

As part of efforts to mobilise spiritual support and solidarity for the victims and their families, the Muslim announced a special prayer session for the safe and speedy return of abductees from schools in Oriire local government area.

The prayer session, organised under the aegis of the chief Imam of Ibadanland and grand chief Imam of Oyo state, Sheikh Al-Imam Abdul-Ganiyy Abubakar Agbotomokekere, will hold on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Yidi Agodi Praying Ground, Ibadan, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

The community called on Muslims across the state to participate in the prayer and seek divine intervention for the victims and their families.

The group expressed hope that ongoing efforts would ensure the abductees return safely without casualties.