The Muslim Community of Oyo State has condemned the recent Sharia-related demands reportedly made by abductors, insisting that terrorists do not represent Islam and cannot speak on behalf of Muslims.
In a statement issued on Friday, June 5, 2026, the leadership of the community said attempts by kidnappers to justify their criminal activities with religious rhetoric were unacceptable and contrary to the teachings of Islam.
According to the group, Islam strictly prohibits kidnapping, terrorism and the extortion of innocent citizens, stressing that genuine Sharia promotes justice, peace and the sanctity of human life, values that are incompatible with the actions of criminals.
The community reaffirmed its support for law enforcement agencies and urged security authorities to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for the crimes.
Quoting Chapter 3, Verse 32 of the Holy Qur’an, the group stated that Allah had ordained that whoever kills a soul unjustly or spreads mischief on earth is as though he has slain all mankind, while saving a life is akin to saving humanity. It noted that despite repeated guidance from Allah’s messengers, many people continue to commit excesses on earth.
The leadership also called on Muslims and residents of Oyo State to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities and reject any attempt to misrepresent the peaceful teachings of Islam.
Meanwhile, under the leadership of the Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Chief Imam of Oyo State, Abdul-Ganiyy Abubakar Agbotomokekere, the Muslim Community of Oyo State announced plans to hold a special prayer session for the speedy and safe return of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
The prayer session, which will be led by Sheikh Al-Imam Abdul-Ganiyy Abubakar Agbotomokekere, is scheduled to hold on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at the Yidi Agodi Praying Ground in Ibadan by 10:30 a.m.
The community urged all Muslims in the state to participate in the prayer programme.
It also expressed appreciation to the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government for their intervention efforts and prayed for divine guidance and protection for security agencies involved in the rescue operations.
The group prayed that the security operatives would succeed in overcoming the criminals and securing the safe return of the abductees without collateral casualties.
Expressing concern over the plight of the victims, the community noted that some of those being held captive are toddlers as young as two years old, who are exposed to harsh conditions and cruel treatment in the forests.
“Our hearts bleed,” the statement said, while praying that Almighty Allah would answer the fervent prayers of the faithful.
The statement was signed by the Chairman of the Muslim Community of Oyo State, Ishaq Kunle Sanni, and the Secretary-General, Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade.
