Muslim Community in Nigeria reject un-Islamic demands made by abductors

Muslim Community in Nigeria reject un-Islamic demands made by abductors
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The Muslim community in Oyo State, Nigeria, has rejected Sharia-related demands reportedly made by terrorists holding teachers and pupils abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

The abductors, who attacked schools in Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa on May 15, are said to be demanding ransom, two Hilux vehicles, the release of detained terrorist commanders and the implementation of Sharia-related law.

In a statement, Oyo Muslim leaders described the demands as criminal and contrary to Islamic teachings, stressing that Islam forbids kidnapping, terrorism and extortion. They said terrorists cannot speak for Muslims and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the captives.

The abduction has forced public and private schools across Oyo’s 33 local government areas to shut down in solidarity and over security concerns. Security experts interviewed by Saturday PUNCH differed on how the government should respond, with some warning that ransom payments and prisoner releases could embolden terrorists, while others urged careful risk assessment to protect the abducted children and teachers.