Mrs Rachael Folawe Alamu, the abducted Principal of Community High School, Esiele, in Oyo State, has issued an emotional appeal from captivity, urging Nigerians and government authorities to secure their release. She refuted media reports claiming that her captors demanded a N1 billion ransom and the imposition of Sharia law.
Principal Denies False Ransom and Sharia Demands
In a viral video released on Monday, June 8, 2026, 25 days after her abduction, Alamu described the alleged demands as false and dangerous. She stated that the kidnappers have not forced any Islamic worship on them and have left them alone. The only demand, she said, is the release of some of their own members from government detention.
“That they requested N1 billion, that they requested that Sharia be entrenched in the country. These are not true. They are just trying to create problems for us,” Alamu said. “We have been here, and we have not been forced to worship in an Islamic way. We have been left alone. They have not troubled us concerning that. They are not asking for Sharia law. They are not asking for money.”
Government Response and Security Measures
The Oyo State Government has denied claims that the kidnapped pupils and teachers have been released. Commissioner Oyelade warned against spreading misleading information, which only causes confusion among victims' families. The government assured the public that discreet efforts are ongoing to secure the safe release of all abducted victims.
Governor Seyi Makinde has imposed a statewide nighttime ban on commercial motorcycle operations, barring okada riders from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. This is part of a broader security crackdown aimed at curbing criminal activities and enhancing public safety.
Background of the Abduction
Armed bandits attacked and kidnapped pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15, 2026. The incident has sparked widespread concern and calls for government action. Alamu’s video message comes amid growing anxiety over the safety of the captives.
Alamu pleaded with the public and authorities not to play politics with their lives, emphasizing that false reports could complicate their situation. “The single thing they are asking for is the release of some of their people. I don’t know why they are peddling this rumour to make it complicated for us,” she added.
