The principal of the Community High School in Oyo State who was abducted alongside students and teachers has denied reports that their captors demanded the introduction of Sharia law, N1 billion ransom, or the supply of weapons before they could be released.
In a video released from captivity, the principal said several claims circulating in the media about the kidnappers’ demands were false. According to her, the abductors had not asked for Sharia law to be included in Nigeria’s constitution, nor had they requested firearms or the huge ransom figures being widely reported.
She appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to help secure their freedom through dialogue rather than a forceful rescue operation. The principal warned that any military action could endanger the lives of the hostages, who remain in the custody of the kidnappers.
The victims were among those abducted during recent attacks on schools in Oyo State, a development that has heightened fears over the spread of kidnapping and banditry into parts of South-West Nigeria. The incidents have triggered public concern and renewed calls for stronger security measures around schools.
In the video, the principal said the abductors insisted that some of the information being reported about them was inaccurate. She maintained that the hostages had not been forced to abandon their faith or practice another religion while in captivity.
The abduction has attracted national attention, with parents, community leaders and civil society groups urging the government to intensify efforts to secure the release of all those being held. Families of the victims have continued to express anxiety over the prolonged ordeal.
Security agencies have been working to track down the kidnappers, while government officials have repeatedly assured residents that efforts are ongoing to rescue the victims and restore safety in affected communities.
The incident is one of several recent kidnapping cases that have raised concerns about insecurity in different parts of the country. Analysts say the attacks highlight the urgent need for improved intelligence gathering, stronger security presence and better protection for schools.
As the wait for freedom continues, the principal’s message has added a new dimension to the case, challenging earlier reports about the kidnappers’ motives and demands while renewing calls for urgent action to bring the hostages home safely.