The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has rejected reports that kidnappers of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State demanded the implementation of Shari’ah as part of conditions for the victims' release, describing the claim as false and a deliberate attempt to damage the image of Islam.

In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, the Islamic human rights organisation maintained that kidnappers, bandits and terrorist groups could not legitimately speak on behalf of Muslims or make demands relating to Islamic law.

MURIC alleged that the reported demand was inserted by individuals opposed to Islam and the campaign for the establishment of Shari’ah courts in the South-West.

According to the group, the alleged demand was intended to portray Islam negatively and undermine longstanding calls by Yoruba Muslims for access to Shari’ah courts within the constitutional framework of Nigeria.

The organisation further claimed that political actors and opponents of Shari’ah may have been involved in the alleged fabrication of the demand, although it did not provide evidence to support the allegation.

 

, however, reiterated that its advocacy for the establishment of Shari’ah courts in the South-West remains peaceful, constitutional and democratic.

"The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees the right of Muslims to seek access to Shari’ah Courts, just as adherents of other faiths enjoy institutions that cater to their religious needs," the group stated.

The organisation argued that denying Muslims access to Shari’ah courts amounts to a restriction on religious freedom and access to justice.

While distancing itself from the alleged demands, MURIC strongly condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, describing the act as criminal, barbaric and contrary to Islamic teachings.

The group maintained that kidnappers and bandits do not represent Islam and should not be associated with legitimate Muslim causes.

MURIC also dismissed suggestions that criminal groups were motivated by Islamic principles, arguing that reports from victims and security agencies indicated that many kidnappers did not observe Islamic practices while in captivity.

The organisation called on Nigerians to reject attempts to link criminal activities with the peaceful agitation for Shari’ah courts, insisting that its campaign would continue through lawful and constitutional means.

The statement comes amid public debate over reports that abductors of schoolchildren in Oyo State allegedly included the implementation of Shari’ah among their demands.