Say Islam forbids kidnapping and violence, insisting criminals cannot represent Sharia or Muslim teachings

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Muslim leaders in Oyo State have rejected attempts by suspected kidnappers to link their criminal activities to Sharia law, describing the claims as false and a misrepresentation of Islam.

The position was contained in a statement signed by the Chairman of the Muslim Community of Oyo State, Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni, and the Secretary-General, Alhaji Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade.

They were reacting to reports that abductors of schoolchildren in Oriire Local Government Area made demands connected to Sharia, which they said has no basis in Islamic teachings.

The leaders stressed that kidnapping, terrorism, and extortion are strictly forbidden in Islam and cannot be justified under any religious law or practice.

According to them, genuine Sharia is rooted in justice, peace, and the protection of human life, and is completely opposed to violence and criminal behaviour.

Quoting the Holy Qur’an, the group referenced Chapter 3, Verse 32: “Therefore, We have ordained that he who slays a soul for spreading mischief on earth shall be as if he had slain all mankind, and he who saves a life shall be as if he had given life to all mankind.”

The community urged the public to reject any attempt to associate Islam with kidnapping or insecurity, describing such claims as a distortion of religious principles.

They also expressed full support for security agencies working to rescue the abducted pupils in Oyo State and called for intensified efforts to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators.

Residents were urged to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and avoid linking Islam with acts of violence or lawlessness.

The Muslim Community announced a special prayer session for the safe return of the abducted pupils, scheduled for Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Yidi Agodi Prayer Ground in Ibadan.

The session will be led by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Chief Imam of Oyo State, Sheikh Al-Imam Abdul-Ganiyy Abubakar Agbotomokekere, starting at 10:30 a.m.

The group commended both the Oyo State Government and Federal Government, along with security agencies, for ongoing rescue operations.

It also expressed concern over reports that some victims, including toddlers as young as two years old, are being held in difficult conditions in forest camps.

The community prayed for the success of security operations and the safe return of all abducted children.

Source: Vanguard