Oyo School Kidnappers Demand Terrorists Release, ₦1bn Ransom, Others

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

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

The victims were abducted during attacks on schools in the Esinele, Yawota, and Alawusa communities on May 15.

The two individuals whose release is reportedly being sought are Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a or Abbas Mukhtar, and his deputy Abubakar Abba, who is also known by several aliases, including Isah Adam, Mahmud Al-Nigeri, and Mallam Mamuda.

Both men are alleged leaders of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimeena Fii Bilaadis Sudan (JAMBS), commonly known as Ansaru, a faction that split from Boko Haram. Authorities have linked them to terrorism-related activities between 2013 and 2015, as well as the 2022 Kuje prison break.

They were arrested in 2025 and are currently facing terrorism charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Usman was previously sentenced to 15 years imprisonment after pleading guilty to illegal mining, which prosecutors said helped finance terrorism and kidnapping activities. He remains in custody while facing additional charges. Abba has pleaded not guilty and is also on trial.

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

Security experts have cautioned against releasing detained terror suspects or paying large ransoms, warning that such actions could strengthen armed groups and encourage further attacks.

The Oyo State Government has not publicly commented on the reported demands. Commissioner for Information Dotun Oyelade said revealing details of ongoing efforts could undermine attempts to secure the victims’ freedom.

Days after the abduction, the kidnappers released a video showing the killing of Michael Oyedokun, a mathematics teacher at Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele. Governor Seyi Makinde later confirmed the teacher’s death and described the incident as deeply painful.