Mrs. Rachael Folawe Alamu, the abducted principal of Community High School, Esiele, Oyo State, has appealed to Nigerians and government authorities to secure the release of herself and other victims being held by kidnappers.
The principal was among the teachers and pupils abducted during an attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15, 2026.
In a viral video released from captivity, Mrs. Alamu dismissed reports claiming that the kidnappers were demanding a ₦1 billion ransom, weapons, or the implementation of Sharia law in Nigeria.
According to her, the information circulating in some sections of the media is false and only complicates efforts to secure their freedom.
“That they requested ₦1 billion, that they requested that Sharia be entrenched in the country. These are not true. They are just trying to create problems for us,” she said.
Mrs. Alamu stated that throughout their time in captivity, the abductors had not pressured them to adopt any religious practices.
“We have been here, and we have not been forced to worship in an Islamic way. They have not troubled us concerning that. They are not asking for Sharia law. They are not asking for money.”
She explained that the kidnappers’ only demand is the release of some of their members currently in detention.
“The single thing they are asking for is the release of some of their people. I don’t know why they are spreading these rumours and making the situation more complicated for us.”
The emotional appeal comes 25 days after the abduction, as families of the victims continue to await their safe return.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government has dismissed reports suggesting that the abducted pupils and teachers have been released. Authorities described the claims as false and misleading, assuring the public that efforts are ongoing to secure the victims’ freedom.
As part of measures aimed at strengthening security across the state, Governor Seyi Makinde recently imposed a statewide curfew on commercial motorcycle operations between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.
The restriction is part of broader efforts to combat criminal activities and improve public safety following the school abduction incident.
The government has urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information while security agencies continue operations to rescue the victims.
