…Says “Bandits can’t speak for Islam”
The Muslim community of Oyo state has publicly disowned kidnappers who tried to use Sharia demands as cover for abducting schoolchildren.
In a strong statement issued on Friday, the group said terrorists and criminals have no right to speak for Islam or Muslims, calling their actions a total contradiction of the faith.
This strong stance emerged as public and private schools across all 33 local government areas in Oyo State closed their doors in solidarity with the victims of the abduction.
Recall that the abductors, who attacked three schools in the communities of Esinele, Yawota, and Alawusa on May 15, have reportedly demanded the release of detained terrorist commanders, a ransom payment, two Hilux vehicles, and the implementation of Sharia law in exchange for freeing the captives.
In a statement issued on Friday, jointly signed by its Chairman, Is’haq Sanni, and Secretary-General, Murisiku Siyanbade, the Oyo State Muslim community characterized the terrorists’ actions as criminal and contrary to Islamic teachings. They emphasized that any attempt by the abductors to justify their actions through religious rhetoric is a gross distortion of Islam.
“Islam forbids kidnapping, terrorism, and the extortion of innocent citizens. True Sharia promotes justice, peace, and the sanctity of human life—values that are in direct opposition to the actions of these criminal groups”, the statement read.
The community asserted that terrorists do not represent Islamic values and cannot claim to speak for Muslims. “Terrorists do not represent Islamic values and cannot speak for Muslims”, they stated.
Quoting the Qur’an 3:32, the community stressed that Islam forbids kidnapping, terrorism and extortion. “He who slays a soul… shall be as if he had slain all mankind,” the statement read. Leaders, Is’haq Kunle Sanni and Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade said Sharia stands for justice, peace and protection of life, not violence.
The group threw its full weight behind security agencies, urging swift action to rescue the abducted pupils from Oriire LGA — some as young as 2 years old. “Our hearts bleed”, the statement added, praying that rescue efforts bring the children home without casualties.
While thanking both Oyo State and the Federal Government for intervening, the community asked residents to stay vigilant and reject any attempt to twist Islamic teachings.
