Kidnappers Demand Release of Terror Suspects, ₦1bn Ransom for Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers

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Armed kidnappers holding pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have reportedly outlined conditions for the release of their captives.

The victims were kidnapped on May 15 when gunmen attacked schools in the Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa communities, carting away several students and members of staff.

According to reports, the abductors have made four major demands. These include the release of two detained terrorist leaders, payment of a substantial ransom, provision of two Hilux vehicles, and recognition of Sharia-related legal provisions.

The suspects whose release is being demanded 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 members of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimeena Fii Bilaadis Sudan (Ansaru), an extremist group that split from Boko Haram and has been linked to several deadly attacks across Nigeria, including the 2022 attack on the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.

Security sources revealed that the two suspects were arrested between May and July 2025 and are currently facing prosecution before the Federal High Court in Abuja on terrorism-related charges.

Usman was previously convicted in a separate illegal mining case after admitting that proceeds from the activity were used to finance the acquisition of weapons for kidnapping operations and other violent attacks. He remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) while standing trial on additional charges.

His deputy, Abubakar Abba, has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges and remains on trial.

In addition to demanding the release of the suspects, the kidnappers are said to be seeking a ransom of about ₦1 billion. Reports indicate that the money is expected to be transferred to a bank account located in the Republic of Benin.

Security agencies have yet to officially comment on the latest demands as efforts continue to secure the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers.