The Muslim community in Oyo State has strongly rejected the Sharia-related demand made by terrorists holding abducted teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area, insisting that the criminals do not represent Islam or the Muslim faithful.
In a statement issued by its leadership, the group condemned the kidnappings and described attempts to justify the crimes through religion as a distortion of Islamic teachings, stressing that Islam promotes peace, justice and the sanctity of human life.
The development comes as public and private schools across Oyo State’s 33 local government areas shut down in solidarity with the abducted victims and to pray for their safe return.
The terrorists, who attacked schools in Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa communities on May 15, reportedly demanded the release of detained commanders, ransom payments, two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related law.
Security experts remain divided on negotiations, while the Oyo State Government has declined to disclose details of ongoing efforts to secure the victims’ freedom.
