Abducted Principal Denies Sharia, N1bn Ransom Claims, Urges Caution Over Oyo Kidnap Reports

An abducted Oyo school principal has denied reports that kidnappers demand Sharia law, weapons or N1 billion ransom, urging authorities and the public to avoid misinformation affecting negotiations.

A school principal abducted alongside pupils and teachers during a terrorist attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has appeared in a new video, rejecting reports that their captors are demanding N1 billion ransom, weapons or the implementation of Sharia law.

The principal, Mrs. Alamu, said the victims had spent 24 days in captivity and appealed to the public, media and authorities to avoid spreading unverified information that could complicate ongoing efforts to secure their release.

Speaking in the video released by the abductors, she disclosed that the captives had been shown reports circulating online about the alleged demands. According to her, the information being shared publicly does not accurately reflect what the kidnappers are requesting.

Mrs. Alamu specifically dismissed claims that the abductors were demanding weapons, a huge ransom payment or the introduction of Sharia law. She warned that such reports could undermine negotiations and make the situation more difficult for those working towards the victims’ freedom.

“They are not asking for Sharia law; they are not asking for weapons; they are not asking for money. All they are asking for is the release of some people and negotiation. Don’t play politics with our lives,” she pleaded.

The appeal comes amid growing anxiety over the fate of about 45 pupils and teachers kidnapped when armed attackers stormed the schools in Oriire Local Government Area. Families of the victims have continued to await positive developments as security agencies and other stakeholders work to secure their release.

The emergence of the video has renewed attention on the abduction and raised fresh questions about the progress of negotiations between authorities and the abductors. It also highlights the emotional toll the prolonged captivity has taken on the victims and their families.

Authorities have yet to officially comment on the claims made in the video, while efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and school staff continue.