The Muslim Community of Oyo State has dissociated itself from reported Sharia-related demands made by abductors of schoolchildren in the state, saying criminals cannot speak on behalf of Islam or the Muslim faithful.
In a statement issued on Friday, the community condemned attempts to use religion to justify kidnapping and other criminal acts, describing such actions as inconsistent with Islamic teachings.
The statement was signed by the Chairman of the Muslim Community of Oyo State, Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni, and the Secretary-General, Alhaji Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade.
According to the group, Islam expressly prohibits kidnapping, terrorism, extortion and any form of violence against innocent people. It stressed that those responsible for the abduction should not be associated with the religion or its adherents.
The community also expressed support for ongoing efforts to secure the release of the affected schoolchildren and urged security agencies to intensify operations aimed at rescuing the victims and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
It called on the public to reject narratives that seek to link criminal activities with religious beliefs, maintaining that Islam promotes peace, justice and the protection of human life.
