The Muslim Community of Oyo State has strongly condemned the recent attempt by school children kidnappers to justify their criminal activities with references to Sharia, insisting that terrorists and abductors do not represent Islam or speak on behalf of Muslims.

In a statement issued on Friday and jointly signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni, and Secretary-General, Alhaji Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade, the community described kidnapping, terrorism and extortion as acts that are fundamentally opposed to Islamic teachings.

The group stressed that genuine Sharia promotes justice, peace, security and the sanctity of human life, values which it said stand in direct contradiction to the actions of criminal elements seeking to cloak their activities in religious rhetoric.

According to the statement, Islam unequivocally forbids the abduction of innocent citizens and all forms of violence against humanity.

The community cited a Qur'anic injunction emphasizing the sacredness of human life, noting that the killing of an innocent person is akin to killing all of humanity, while saving a life is comparable to saving all mankind.

The Muslim body also expressed its support for security agencies and called on law enforcement authorities to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for the recent abductions.

It further urged residents of Oyo State, particularly Muslims, to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities and reject attempts by criminals to distort the peaceful teachings of Islam.

Meanwhile, under the leadership of the Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Chief Imam of Oyo State, Sheikh Al-Imam Abdul-Ganiyy Abubakar Agbotomokekere, the Muslim Community of Oyo State has announced a special prayer session for the safe and speedy release of abductees from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The prayer programme is scheduled to hold on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at the Yidi Agodi Praying Ground in Ibadan by 10:30 a.m.

The community called on Muslims across the state to participate in the prayer gathering and seek divine intervention for the victims and their families.

It also commended the efforts of the Oyo State Government, the Federal Government and security agencies in ongoing rescue operations, while offering prayers for wisdom, protection and success in securing the release of the abductees without casualties.

Expressing concern over the plight of the victims, including toddlers reportedly among those held captive, the Muslim Community said its thoughts and prayers remain with the abductees and their families as efforts continue to secure their freedom.

The organisation prayed for Allah's guidance and mercy in bringing the crisis to a peaceful end.