Oyo School Kidnappers Demand Release of Terror Commanders, ₦1bn Ransom

The terrorists holding teachers and pupils abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have reportedly issued a four-point demand for the release of the captives.

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

The terrorists attacked schools in the Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa communities on May 15, abducting teachers and pupils in one of the most shocking school attacks in the South-West in recent years.

The two commanders whose release is reportedly being sought are Mahmud Usman, also known as Abbas Mukhtar, and his deputy, Abubakar Abba, also known as Mahmud Al-Nigeri or Mallam Mamuda.

Both men are leaders of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimeena Fii Bilaadis Sudan, an extremist group linked to terrorism activities and regarded as a breakaway faction of Boko Haram.

The duo were arrested between May and July 2025 and are currently standing trial on terrorism charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Usman was previously sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for illegal mining after admitting that proceeds from the activity were used to fund arms procurement for terrorism and kidnapping operations. However, he remains in custody while facing additional terrorism-related charges.

Reports also indicate that the kidnappers are demanding a ransom of ₦1 billion, allegedly to be paid into a bank account in the Republic of Benin, although this figure has not been independently verified.

Security experts have warned against yielding to the demands.

A retired brigadier-general, Bashir Adewinbi, cautioned that paying ransom or releasing high-profile terror suspects could strengthen criminal networks and encourage further attacks.

Another retired brigadier-general, Peter Aro, advised authorities to first establish proof that the abducted victims remain alive before making critical decisions, especially given the prolonged captivity of young children.

The Oyo State Government has declined to comment on the reported demands or ongoing negotiations.

Commissioner for Information Dotun Oyelade said revealing details of the government’s strategy could undermine efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.