Terrorists holding 46 abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State have reportedly demanded the release of detained Ansaru commanders, a ₦1bn ransom, two Hilux vehicles and the implementation of Sharia-related law before freeing their captives, according to Saturday PUNCH.
The fate of dozens of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State remains uncertain as terrorists holding them have reportedly tabled a four-point demand for their release. According to Saturday PUNCH, the abductors, who raided schools in Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, are seeking major concessions from the government before releasing the captives.
The Reported Demands
- Release of two detained Ansaru commanders
- Payment of ransom reportedly put at ₦1bn
- Provision of two Hilux vehicles
- Implementation of Sharia-related law
The two commanders whose freedom is reportedly being sought are Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a or Abbas Mukhtar, and his deputy, Abubakar Abba, alias Isah Adam or Mahmud Al-Nigeri. The pair are leaders of Ansaru, a breakaway faction of Boko Haram, and are facing terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja. They have also been linked to the 2022 Kuje prison break.
Usman was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment in September 2025 after admitting to illegal mining used to finance terrorism and kidnapping activities, although he denied 31 other charges and remains in DSS custody. His deputy, Abba, pleaded not guilty to all charges and is still standing trial.
Security experts have warned against granting the demands. Retired Brigadier-General Bashir Adewinbi told Saturday PUNCH that paying ransom or releasing terrorist commanders could strengthen criminal networks and encourage future attacks. Another retired military officer, Brigadier-General Peter Aro, urged authorities to first confirm that the abductees are still alive before making any decision, stressing that prolonged captivity poses serious risks, especially for children.
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