* Chief Imam of Ibadan to lead special prayer for abductees’ safe return on June 7
The Muslim Community of Oyo State has strongly condemned reports of alleged Sharia-related demands made by kidnappers involved in recent abductions in parts of the state, declaring that terrorists and criminals do not represent Islam and have no authority to speak on behalf of Muslims.
In a press statement issued on Friday, June 5, 2026, and jointly signed by the Chairman, Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni, and the Secretary-General, Alhaji Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade, the community described the reported attempt by abductors to justify their actions using religious rhetoric as “criminal, misleading and unacceptable.”
Muslim News gathered that there were unconfirmed reports that the abductors allegedly demanded ₦1 billion as ransom alongside the implementation of Sharia law in Oyo State as part of conditions for the release of the abducted schoolgirls.
However, the Muslim Community clarified that, while these claims remain unverified and have not been confirmed by any relevant security agency, terrorists cannot be allowed to distort or appropriate religious teachings to justify criminal acts.
The group stressed that Islam strictly forbids kidnapping, terrorism, violence, and the extortion of innocent lives and property, adding that any attempt to associate such acts with the religion is a distortion of its teachings.
It further clarified that legitimate Sharia law is rooted in justice, peace, and the protection of human life, noting that it is fundamentally incompatible with the violent actions of kidnappers.
“Islam condemns the killing or harm of innocent souls. Those who commit such acts cannot in any way represent the teachings of Islam,” the statement emphasized.
Quoting Qur’an Chapter 3, Verse 32, the community reaffirmed the sanctity of human life, noting that saving a life is equivalent to saving all of humanity, while unlawfully taking a life is a grave sin.
The group also urged Muslims and residents of Oyo State to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and reject any attempts to misrepresent or distort the peaceful teachings of Islam for criminal purposes.
The community also announced a special prayer session for the safe return of abducted pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area, scheduled to hold on Sunday, June 7, under the leadership of the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Al-Imam Abdul-Ganiyy Abubakar Agbotomokekere.
The prayer session is scheduled to take place at the Yidi Agodi Praying Ground, Ibadan, beginning at 10:30 a.m., and all Muslims within and outside Oyo State have been urged to participate.
The community also expressed appreciation to the Oyo State Government, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and security agencies for their ongoing intervention, while praying for divine assistance in rescue efforts.
It prayed for the safe return of all abducted victims, including young children reportedly as young as two years old, describing their condition as deeply distressing and calling for urgent action to ensure their rescue without harm.
“Our hearts bleed over this tragic situation. We pray Almighty Allah grants swift and safe return of all abductees and strengthens the hands of security agencies in their efforts,” the statement added.
Sponsored
Sponsored
Sponsored
Nigerian Muslim Personalities of the Year 2024/2025
Global Muslim Personalities of the Year 2024/2025
