- Among the demands are the freedom of two detained extremist leaders
- Reports also suggest that the kidnappers are seeking a ransom believed to be as high as ₦1 billion
- They also stressed the importance of verifying the condition of the hostages before any major decisions are taken
More details have emerged about the conditions reportedly set by the armed group holding dozens of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the victims were taken during coordinated attacks on educational institutions in the Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa communities on May 15, an incident that has continued to generate concern across the state.
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According to reports, the kidnappers have outlined several conditions for the release of the captives.
Among the demands are the freedom of two detained extremist leaders, a substantial ransom payment, the provision of two Hilux vehicles and the enforcement of a Sharia-related legal framework.
The individuals whose release is reportedly being sought are Mahmud Usman and his associate, Abubakar Abba. Both men are alleged members of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimeena Fii Bilaadis Sudan (Ansaru), an extremist faction that split from Boko Haram.
The suspects were arrested in 2025 and are currently facing terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Authorities have linked them to various security offences, including alleged involvement in activities connected to extremist operations in the country.
Usman had earlier been convicted on an illegal mining charge after admitting that proceeds from the activity were used to support the acquisition of weapons. However, he continues to face additional terrorism-related charges that are still before the court.
His co-defendant, Abba, has denied all allegations against him and remains on trial.
Reports also suggest that the kidnappers are seeking a ransom believed to be as high as ₦1 billion, although the figure has not been independently confirmed by authorities.
Security experts have cautioned against conceding to the demands. Retired military officers and analysts argue that releasing individuals facing terrorism charges or paying large sums of money could strengthen criminal networks and encourage future abductions.
They also stressed the importance of verifying the condition of the hostages before any major decisions are taken, especially given the prolonged period of captivity involving schoolchildren.
The Oyo State Government has remained silent on the reported demands and any ongoing negotiations. Officials say revealing operational details could undermine efforts to secure the safe return of the victims.
The abduction took a tragic turn shortly after the attack when a video surfaced showing the killing of one of the kidnapped teachers, Michael Oyedokun. The incident was later confirmed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who described the development as heartbreaking.
As efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining captives, pressure is mounting on security agencies and government authorities to bring the crisis to a peaceful end and prevent similar attacks on schools in the future.
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