Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land condemns Ahoro-Esinle killings, demands united war against terrorism

Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has strongly condemned the brutal killings linked to the recent abduction incident at Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the acts as barbaric, inhuman and a grave assault on peace and humanity.

In a press statement issued, the respected Islamic cleric expressed deep sorrow, grief and outrage over reports that innocent teachers and residents lost their lives during the attack carried out by suspected kidnappers and terrorists.

Speaking emotionally on the tragedy, Sheikh Bilal Akinola said the killings had thrown the Muslim community and the entire state into mourning, stressing that the continuous shedding of innocent blood should no longer be treated as an ordinary security challenge.

According to him, the disturbing development must serve as a wake-up call to governments, traditional institutions, religious leaders and community stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in the fight against terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes threatening communities across the country.

The Grand Chief Imam maintained that security responsibility should not be left to the government and security agencies alone.

He urged traditional rulers, clerics, youth organisations, market associations, transport unions, local vigilante groups and community leaders to work together in identifying suspicious activities, exposing criminal elements and preventing informants from aiding kidnappers within local communities.

He warned that silence, indifference and concealment of criminal activities only embolden enemies of peace and contribute to the worsening insecurity across the nation.

The cleric also appealed to religious leaders across different faiths to intensify prayers for peace and security while promoting moral discipline, unity and vigilance among citizens.

Quoting verses from the Holy Qur’an, Sheikh Bilal condemned those who derive pleasure from terrorising innocent people and prayed for divine justice against perpetrators of violence, bloodshed and oppression.

He further sympathised with bereaved families, residents of Ahoro-Esinle community, the management of the affected school, security personnel involved in rescue operations, as well as the government and people of Oyo State over the painful incident.

The Grand Chief Imam commended security agencies for ongoing rescue efforts and urged them not to relent until all remaining captives are safely rescued and reunited with their families.

He also advised citizens to remain calm, vigilant and cooperative with lawful authorities, warning against the spread of fear, hatred and divisive sentiments capable of escalating tensions.

Praying for divine intervention, Sheikh Bilal asked Almighty Allah to comfort grieving families, protect victims still in captivity, grant healing to injured security personnel and restore lasting peace, safety and stability to Nigeria.