By Ojima-ojo Yunus, Abuja
The abducted principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, Rachael Alamu, has denied reports that her captors are demanding the imposition of Sharia law or payment of ransom as conditions for their release.
Alamu made the clarification in a distress video posted on social media on Monday, urging Nigerians to disregard what she described as false information being circulated about the kidnappers’ demands.
The principal, who appeared visibly distressed in the video, said rumours suggesting that the abductors were demanding N1bn ransom, weapons and the implementation of Sharia law were untrue.
She maintained that the only demand communicated by the kidnappers was the release of some of their associates.
According to her, “People are saying that those who abducted us requested the release of some people, demanded one billion naira and asked for Sharia law to be entrenched in the country. That is not true.”
Alamu further disclosed that neither she nor other victims had been forced to adopt any religious practice since they were taken captive.
“Since we have been here, we have not been forced to worship in any Islamic way. We have been left alone. They have not pressured us on that issue,” she said.
She added, “They are not asking for Sharia law. They are not asking for money. The simple thing they are asking for is the release of some of their people.”
The principal appealed to members of the public and relevant authorities not to politicise their ordeal, warning that misinformation could complicate efforts to secure their freedom.
“Please, we are begging you, do not play politics with our lives. Nigerians, please help us circulate this message. Let it go viral,” she pleaded.
Alamu also urged the government to engage the abductors through dialogue and determine how best to address their demands.
“The government can negotiate with them and determine those who may be released. I do not understand why they are playing politics with our lives,” she said.
She further appealed to Nigerians to help spread what she described as the true account of the kidnappers’ demands.
“Please, Nigerians, our lives are in your hands. Help us make this message go viral. Do not allow the government to deceive the whole world,” she added.
The video has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians calling for intensified efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.