The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, and the Oyo State chapter of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) have strongly condemned the gruesome killings linked to the recent abduction incident at Community High School, Ahoro Esinle, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Both Islamic bodies described the attacks as barbaric, wicked, inhuman, and a dangerous reflection of the worsening insecurity confronting communities across Nigeria.
MURIC, in a statement signed by its Oyo State Secretary, Amb. Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade, alleged that three persons had lost their lives in connection with the incident.
According to the organisation, one teacher and a commercial motorcyclist were reportedly killed during the abduction process, while another abducted teacher, whose identity was withheld, was allegedly beheaded in captivity by the abductors.
The group said a disturbing video allegedly released by the kidnappers, showing the execution of the teacher, exposed the frightening level of brutality now being unleashed on innocent Nigerians by criminal elements.
“MURIC strongly condemns the abduction and execution. It is callous, wicked and barbaric,” the statement said.
It reflects Nigeria’s worsening insecurity: Amb. Agunbiade
The organisation warned that the tragedy was a painful reminder of the deteriorating security situation in many parts of the country, noting that schools and rural communities were increasingly becoming unsafe.
MURIC also cautioned against giving the incident ethnic or religious interpretation, stressing that criminality knows no religion.
The organisation noted that the abducted victims included innocent pupils, many of whom were Muslims, alongside teachers who were predominantly Christians.
“An attack on one innocent Nigerian is an attack on all,” the statement added.
The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Bilal Akinola, in his separate reaction, expressed deep sorrow, pain, and outrage over the killings and abductions.
The respected Islamic scholar described the killing of innocent citizens by kidnappers and terrorists as satanic and a direct assault on the peace and sanctity of society.
Speaking amid visible emotion over the incident, the Chief Imam said the entire Muslim Ummah and all people of conscience must rise collectively against the growing wave of insecurity threatening communities across the nation.
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According to him, the continuous shedding of innocent blood should awaken governments, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to the urgent need for stronger collaboration in combating criminality and terrorism.
The Grand Chief Imam stressed that security should not be left to government alone, calling on traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, market associations, transport unions, local vigilantes, and community leaders to work together in exposing criminal elements and informants aiding kidnappers within communities.
He warned that silence, indifference, and concealment of criminal activities only embolden enemies of peace and humanity.
The renowned Muslim scholar also urged religious leaders across all faiths to intensify prayers for peace, justice, and security while promoting moral discipline, unity, and vigilance among citizens.
MURIC acknowledged efforts being made by the Oyo State Government and security agencies, particularly the reported arrest of some suspects connected to the incident.
The organisation also sympathised with security personnel, including Amotekun operatives and local vigilantes, who reportedly lost their lives during rescue operations after encountering Improvised Explosive Devices allegedly planted by the abductors.
However, both MURIC and the Grand Chief Imam insisted that more urgent action must be taken to rescue the remaining captives.
“Mere promises and routine assurances are no longer enough. The remaining abducted teachers and pupils must be rescued alive and without delay. Every second counts,” MURIC stated.
The organisation called on the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Police Force, Amotekun Corps, and other security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and surveillance operations to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
It also demanded a comprehensive security audit of vulnerable schools and rural communities across Oyo State, warning that government must not wait until more innocent lives are lost before taking preventive measures.
The Grand Chief Imam equally appealed to citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with lawful authorities, and avoid spreading fear, hatred, or divisive sentiments capable of worsening the situation.
Both Islamic bodies commiserated with the bereaved families, the management of Community High School, the people of Ahoro Esinle, the entire Oriire Local Government Area, and the Government and people of Oyo State over the tragic development.
They prayed to Almighty Allah to comfort the families of the deceased, heal injured security personnel, protect those still in captivity, and restore lasting peace, safety, and stability to Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.
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