Grand Chief Imam of Oyoland appeals for release of abducted children, teachers before Eid al-Adha

Michael Olumide

Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has made an emotional appeal to abductors currently holding innocent children and their teachers in captivity, urging them to release the victims in the spirit of compassion, mercy and fear of Almighty Allah ahead of the Eid al-Adha celebration.

In a heartfelt message issued on Sunday, the revered Islamic cleric called on the captors to reflect deeply on the teachings of Islam, particularly the boundless mercy and forgiveness of Allah toward those who sincerely repent from wrongdoing.

The respected religious leader stressed that no sin is beyond forgiveness when accompanied by genuine repentance and a return to righteousness.

Quoting from the Holy Qur’an, the Grand Chief Imam referenced Surah Az-Zumar Verse 53, which says: “Say: O My servants who have transgressed against their own souls, do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Truly,

He is the Oft-Forgiving, the Most Merciful.” He also cited Surah An-Nisa Verse 110:

“And whoever does evil or wrongs himself but afterwards seeks Allah’s forgiveness will find Allah Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

According to him, the verses remain eternal reminders that Allah’s door of mercy is always open to every soul willing to abandon evil and embrace peace and humanity.

The Grand Chief Imam passionately pleaded with the abductors to allow compassion to triumph over cruelty by freeing the innocent victims without further delay.

“I hereby beg you in the mightiest name of Allah to release these innocent children and their teachers still under your custody. Let compassion prevail over cruelty, and let humanity triumph over pain and sorrow,” he appealed.

He further lamented the emotional agony and trauma being endured daily by the families of the abducted children and their teachers, noting that their continued captivity has brought untold pain and anxiety to loved ones awaiting their safe return.

The Islamic scholar urged the abductors to show mercy by allowing the victims to reunite with their families in time to participate in the forthcoming Eid al-Adha festivities.

“Please, please and please, let them celebrate Eid al-Adha with their families and with us,” the cleric passionately pleaded.

The Grand Chief Imam concluded his message with prayers for peace, mercy and divine guidance for all humanity, while asking Almighty Allah to forgive sins, overlook shortcomings and keep everyone steadfast in faith.