The Muslim Community of Oyo State has strongly dissociated itself from reported Sharia-related demands made by kidnappers holding schoolchildren in the state, declaring that criminals have no authority to speak on behalf of Islam or the Muslim faithful.
In a statement released on Friday, the community condemned attempts by the abductors to cloak criminal activities in religious language, stressing that Islam does not support kidnapping, terrorism, extortion, or any form of violence against innocent people. The group described the actions of the kidnappers as a gross misrepresentation of Islamic teachings and values.
The statement, jointly signed by the Chairman of the Muslim Community of Oyo State, Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni, and Secretary-General Alhaji Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade, emphasized that the religion promotes peace, justice, compassion, and respect for human life. According to the leaders, individuals involved in criminal acts cannot claim legitimacy through religion, regardless of the demands they make or the language they employ.
The Muslim community expressed deep concern over the abduction of the schoolchildren and the growing insecurity affecting communities across the country. It noted that the welfare and safety of the victims should remain the top priority, urging security agencies to intensify efforts to secure their release and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The group also commended ongoing rescue operations by law enforcement and security agencies, expressing confidence that the authorities would act professionally and decisively in resolving the crisis. It called on citizens to support lawful efforts to combat insecurity and avoid narratives that could inflame religious tensions or create divisions among Nigerians.
Furthermore, the community warned against associating the criminal actions of kidnappers with any religion, ethnic group, or legitimate religious movement. It stressed that such associations could undermine social harmony and distract attention from the real issue of criminality.
Religious leaders in the state urged Nigerians to remain united against insecurity and reject attempts by criminal elements to exploit faith for personal gain. They reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, interfaith understanding, and cooperation with government authorities in addressing security challenges.
The statement comes amid heightened public concern over the safety of schoolchildren and renewed calls for stronger measures to protect educational institutions from attacks by kidnappers and other criminal groups. The Muslim Community maintained that no genuine interpretation of Islamic law supports the abduction of innocent people or the use of violence to advance any cause, reiterating that those responsible for such acts should be treated as criminals and not representatives of any faith.
