Terrorists Demand Release of Commanders, ₦1bn Ransom and Other Conditions for Freedom of Abducted Oyo Teachers and Pupils

The terrorists responsible for the abduction of teachers and pupils from three schools in Oyo State have reportedly outlined a series of conditions that must be met before the remaining victims can regain their freedom.

The attack occurred on May 15 when armed terrorists invaded schools located in the Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa communities of Oriire Local Government Area.

The incident drew national attention days later after a disturbing video emerged on May 17 showing one of the kidnapped teachers, Michael Oladokun, being killed by his captors. Oladokun was a mathematics teacher at Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele.

Reacting to the development, Seyi Makinde described the teacher’s death as deeply painful and condemned the attack.

According to reports, the terrorists are now demanding four major concessions before releasing the remaining hostages. These include the release of two detained terrorist commanders, payment of a ransom, the provision of two Hilux vehicles, and the implementation of Sharia-related laws.

The two commanders reportedly being sought by the group are Mahmud Usman and his deputy, Abubakar Abba.

Both men are alleged leaders of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimeena Fii Bilaadis Sudan (JAMBS), a faction that split from Boko Haram. Authorities accuse them of supporting terrorist activities across Nigeria between 2013 and 2015 and linking them to the 2022 prison break at Kuje Correctional Centre.

The suspects were arrested between May and July 2025 and are currently facing terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Their trial reportedly began on January 15, 2026.

Mahmud Usman was previously sentenced to 15 years imprisonment on September 11, 2025, after pleading guilty to illegal mining charges. Prosecutors said he admitted that proceeds from the mining activities were used to acquire weapons and support kidnapping and terrorist operations.

Despite the conviction, he continues to face additional terrorism-related charges and remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

His deputy, Abubakar Abba, pleaded not guilty to all charges brought against him and is still standing trial before the same court.

In addition to demanding the release of the commanders, the terrorists are reportedly seeking a ransom of ₦1 billion. Reports claim the money is expected to be paid into a bank account located in the Republic of Benin, although this information has not been independently verified.

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