IBADAN, Oyo State — Suspected kidnappers holding dozens of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have reportedly demanded the implementation of Sharia law in the state, alongside a ₦1 billion ransom and other conditions, as negotiations for the victims’ release continue.
The reported demands were disclosed by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin revealed that the kidnappers had added ideological and political demands to their conditions, apart from financial demands. According to reports, the kidnappers are demanding the implementation of Sharia law in Oyo State, a payment of ₦1 billion into a bank account in the Republic of Benin, the provision of two Hilux vehicles, food supplies, and the release of suspects allegedly connected to their network.
This development has worried many people and security personnel, with some calling the demands for ransom a disturbing evolution from the usual kidnapping racket to something more complicated.
The kidnapping occurred after raids on schools in Ahoro-Esinele, Yawota, and their neighboring areas of Oriire LGA, on May 15, 2026. This situation sent a scare through the community and increased concerns about the insecurity prevalent in certain parts of southwestern Nigeria.The Oyo State House of Assembly has rejected calls for negotiations with the kidnappers, stressing that security agencies should intensify rescue efforts to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers. The lawmakers have also renewed calls for stronger security measures and the establishment of state police to tackle the rising insecurity.
Responding to the alleged Sharia-related demand, the Muslim Community of Oyo State condemned the action of the abductors, saying Islam does not condone kidnapping and terrorism, adding that criminals cannot speak for Muslims or represent Islamic values.
As rescue efforts continue, victim’s family have appealed to the government and security agencies to act swiftly, expressing growing anxiety over the safety and wellbeing of their loved ones still in captivity.
