The Muslim community in Oyo State has rejected the Sharia-related demands allegedly issued by terrorists who kidnapped teachers and students from schools in Oriire Local Government Area, asserting that these criminals do not represent Islam or Muslims.
The stance emerged as public and private schools in all 33 local government areas of Oyo State closed in support of the kidnapped victims.
Additionally, security analysts interviewed by PUNCH expressed various perspectives on how the federal government might address the terrorists’ demands.
The kidnappers, who targeted three schools in the Esinele, Yawota, and Alawusa areas on May 15, allegedly requested the release of imprisoned terrorist leaders, a ransom, two Hilux trucks, and the enforcement of Sharia law prior to releasing the hostages.
In a statement released on Friday and jointly signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Ishaq Sanvni, and Secretary-General, Alhaji Murisiku Siyanbade, the Muslim community of Oyo State condemned the terrorists’ actions as criminal and against Islamic teachings.
The organisation stated that the efforts by the kidnappers to rationalise their behaviour with religious language constituted a misrepresentation of Islam.
“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 organisation mentioned that terrorists could not claim to speak on behalf of Muslims.
“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 values the safeguarding of human life and called on security forces to enhance their efforts in freeing those held captive.
The announcement arose alongside increasing worries about the well-being of the kidnapped teachers and students.
The Eleshi of Esiele, Oba Tajudeen Abioye, a traditional leader in one of the impacted communities, urged the government to ensure the victims’ release.
“We are aware of the ransom demands of the terrorists, but we are helpless. We are looking up to the government and pleading for intervention,” he said.
