Killings of teachers, citizens barbaric, satanic — Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land

Killings of teachers, citizens barbaric, satanic — Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land

IBADAN — The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has condemned the brutal killings associated with the recent abduction of students and staff of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

In a press release issued on Monday, May 18, 2026, the respected Islamic scholar expressed deep sorrow, pain and outrage over what he described as gruesome killings of innocent teachers and citizens by kidnappers and terrorists. He labeled the acts as barbaric, satanic, inhuman and a direct assault on the peace and sanctity of society.

Speaking with visible emotion and grief over the disturbing reports, the Grand Chief Imam said the entire Muslim Ummah and indeed all people of conscience must rise collectively against the growing wave of insecurity threatening communities across the nation.

According to Sheikh Akinola, the continuous shedding of innocent blood is a tragedy that should awaken governments, traditional institutions, religious leaders and community stakeholders to the urgent need for stronger collaboration in combating criminality and terrorism.

The cleric stressed that security should not be left to government alone. He called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, market associations, transport unions, local vigilantes and community leaders to work together in exposing criminal elements, suspicious movements and informants aiding kidnappers within communities.

He warned that silence, indifference and concealment of criminal activities only embolden enemies of peace and humanity.

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The revered cleric also urged religious leaders across all faiths to intensify prayers for peace, justice and security while promoting moral discipline, unity and vigilance among citizens.

Quoting relevant verses from the Glorious Qur’an, Sheikh Bilal Akinola condemned those who derive pleasure in terrorizing innocent people and prayed for divine justice against all perpetrators of violence, bloodshed and oppression.

The Grand Chief Imam equally sympathized with the bereaved families, the people of Ahoro-Esinle, the management of the affected school, security personnel involved in rescue efforts and the Government and people of Oyo State over the unfortunate incident.

He commended security agencies for ongoing rescue operations and urged them not to relent until all remaining captives are safely reunited with their families.

The cleric further appealed to citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with lawful authorities and avoid spreading fear, hatred or divisive sentiments capable of worsening the situation.

He prayed Almighty Allah to comfort the deceased families, protect those still in captivity, heal injured security personnel and restore lasting peace, safety and stability to Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.

The abduction and killing of teachers and students at Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, has sparked widespread outrage across Oyo State and the nation at large, with many calling for urgent and decisive action from security agencies and all tiers of government.

Killings of teachers, citizens barbaric, satanic — Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land