Mrs Rachael Alamu, the abducted Principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, has dismissed reports that the kidnappers holding her and dozens of pupils and teachers captive were demanding the implementation of Sharia law as a condition for their release.
The clarification was contained in a fresh video released on Monday, nearly four weeks after armed men abducted more than 40 pupils and teachers from the community on May 15, 2026.
The latest footage has heightened anxiety among residents and stakeholders, coming amid ongoing efforts by the government and security agencies to secure the release of the victims.
In the video, Mrs Alamu expressed concern over what she described as misleading reports surrounding the circumstances of their captivity, warning that inaccurate narratives could complicate efforts to resolve the crisis.
She specifically refuted claims circulating in some sections of the media that the abductors had demanded the introduction of Sharia law, insisting that such reports did not reflect the reality of the situation.
According to her, the kidnappers’ major demand remains the release of some of their members currently in detention.
“Today makes it the 24th day that we have been in captivity and it seems some people are making our problem more complicated,” she said.
“We were shown some print media reports where it was stated that the people who abducted us requested the release of some people and demanded billions of naira. I want to make some clarification. Please, don’t play politics with our lives.”
Mrs Alamu appealed to government authorities, media organisations and members of the public to exercise caution in disseminating information about the abduction, stressing that inaccurate reports could jeopardise ongoing negotiations and rescue efforts.
She urged those involved in managing the crisis to ensure that information released to the public accurately reflects developments surrounding the incident.
The principal’s latest appeal came as concern continues to mount over the prolonged captivity of the pupils and teachers, whose abduction has generated widespread condemnation and renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect schools and rural communities.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not issued any official response to the claims contained in the video.
However, government officials have maintained that efforts to secure the safe release of all victims remain ongoing, assuring residents that security operatives are working tirelessly to bring the ordeal to an end.
