The principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, Rachael Alamu, has finally spoken out after spending 24 days in the den of her abductors, setting the record straight on the demands of the kidnappers.
In a heartbreaking video released on Monday, June 8, 2026, Mrs. Alamu appealed to the government and the public, stating clearly that the terrorists holding her and her students are not demanding a N1 billion ransom or the implementation of Sharia law across the country, as earlier reported by some media outlets.
“The terrorists are not asking for Sharia law, they’re not asking for money, they are not asking for 1 billion Naira, they’re not asking for cars. All they need is some of their people to be released. Please help us beg the government to negotiate with them,” she said in the emotional video.
Click here to watch the video.
Her statement has raised fresh concerns about the true motive behind the abduction and the safety of the remaining captives, many of whom are believed to be students. The clarification comes amid growing public anxiety and conflicting reports about the kidnappers’ demands since the incident occurred.
Mrs. Alamu, who appeared visibly distressed in the video, revealed that they have spent 24 agonising days in captivity. Her plea for negotiation has sparked renewed calls from Nigerians on social media for the government to engage the abductors and secure the safe release of all victims.
Many observers have criticised the spread of what they described as “false narratives” about the ransom and Sharia demands, arguing that such misinformation could complicate negotiations and endanger the lives of the hostages.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official reaction from the Oyo State Government or security agencies regarding the principal’s latest statement. The incident has once again highlighted the growing insecurity in parts of the Southwest and the urgent need for a more effective strategy to combat banditry and kidnapping.
Nigerians continue to pray for the safe return of Mrs. Alamu and all the victims still in captivity.
This is a developing story.
