Muslim leaders in Oyo State have firmly rejected attempts by kidnappers to link their criminal activities to Sharia law, describing such claims as a gross misrepresentation of Islamic principles.
The position was made known in a statement by the Chairman of the Muslim Community of Oyo State, Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni, and the Secretary-General, Alhaji Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade.
Reacting to viral reports that abductors of schoolchildren in Oriire Local Government Area had made demands connected to Sharia, the Muslim leadership stressed that neither terrorists nor kidnappers have any authority to speak on behalf of Islam or the Muslim faithful.
According to the statement, Islamic teachings clearly prohibit acts such as kidnapping, terrorism and the extortion of innocent people, making any attempt to justify such crimes on religious grounds entirely unacceptable.
The organisation stated that genuine Sharia is founded on justice, peace and respect for the sanctity of human life, values which stand in direct opposition to violence and criminality.
Reaffirming its stance, the community declared that the recent Sharia-related demands attributed to the abductors should be condemned outright, noting that those responsible do not represent Islamic values in any form.
To underscore its position, the group cited the Holy Qur’an, referencing Chapter 3, Verse 32, which states: “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 to all mankind.“
“And indeed, again and again, did our messengers come to them with clear directives, yet many of them continue to commit excesses on earth.”
The Muslim community also reiterated its support for security agencies working to secure the release of the abducted children and called on relevant authorities to intensify efforts aimed at bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Residents across Oyo State, particularly Muslims, were urged to remain alert, report suspicious movements and activities, and resist any attempts to associate Islam with acts of violence and lawlessness.
…organises prayers
In addition, the community announced a special prayer programme for the safe return of the pupils currently in captivity.
The event will be led by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Chief Imam of Oyo State, Sheikh Al-Imam Abdul-Ganiyy Abubakar Agbotomokekere.
The prayer session is scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Yidi Agodi Praying Ground in Ibadan, with Muslims throughout the state encouraged to attend.
The organisation also acknowledged and praised the efforts of the Oyo State Government, the Federal Government and security agencies involved in ongoing rescue operations.
Expressing deep concern over the plight of the victims, the community said its members were heartbroken by reports that some of those being held were toddlers as young as two years old, allegedly kept in difficult conditions within forest camps.
The Muslim community prayed for the safety, wisdom and success of security personnel participating in the rescue mission, while expressing optimism that all the abducted children would be reunited with their families unharmed.
