𝗢𝗬𝗢 𝗔𝗕𝗗𝗨𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: 𝗧𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀

𝗕𝗬 𝗡𝗜𝗚𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗧𝗔 𝗩𝗢𝗜𝗖𝗘,

𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝘁𝗮, 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮.

The terrorists responsible for the abduction of pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have reportedly outlined four conditions for the release of their captives.

According to reports, the abductors are demanding the release of two detained terrorist commanders, payment of a ransom, provision of two Hilux vehicles, and the implementation of Sharia-related laws.

The victims were kidnapped during coordinated attacks on schools in Esinele, Yawota, and Alawusa communities on May 15, 2026.

The terrorist commanders whose release is being sought have been identified as Mahmud Usman and Abubakar Abba. Both men are leaders of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimeena Fii Bilaadis Sudan (Ansaru), a faction linked to several terrorist operations across Nigeria.

The suspects were arrested between May and July 2025 and are currently facing terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Reports indicate that Usman had earlier been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for illegal mining activities used to finance terrorism and kidnapping operations, while additional terrorism charges remain pending against him.

Although some reports claim the terrorists are demanding a ransom of ₦1 billion to be paid into an account in the Republic of Benin, the figure has not been independently verified.

Security experts have cautioned against yielding to the demands, warning that releasing terrorist commanders or paying ransom could strengthen criminal networks and encourage further attacks.

A retired Brigadier-General, Bashir Adewinbi, described the situation as a difficult challenge for the government, stressing that concessions to the terrorists could undermine national security.

Similarly, retired Brigadier-General Peter Aro urged authorities to first establish proof that the abducted pupils and teachers are still alive before considering any negotiations.

The Oyo State Government has declined to comment on the demands or ongoing negotiations. The state's Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said disclosing details of the government's strategy could jeopardize efforts to secure the victims' safe release.

Meanwhile, the crisis deepened after the abductors released a video on May 17 showing the killing of one of the kidnapped teachers, Michael Oyedokun. Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, subsequently confirmed the teacher's death and described the incident as tragic and heartbreaking.

Efforts by security agencies and government authorities to secure the release of the remaining captives are ongoing.