The principal of Community High School in Ahoro-Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, has publicly denied sensational claims about her captors' demands.
In a new video that surfaced on Monday, the woman, identified as Mrs. Rachael Alamu, firmly dismissed reports that her abductors requested ₦1 billion ransom, the release of certain individuals, and the entrenchment of Sharia law across Nigeria.
"These are not true," she stated clearly. "Today makes it the 24th day that we have been in this place, and it seems that some people are making our problems more complicated."
She continued: "We were shown some print media where it was stated that these people that abducted us requested the release of some people, requested a billion naira, and requested Sharia to be entrenched in the country. These are not true."
The abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed attackers struck three schools in the area, taking pupils, teachers, and the principal. Two individuals were reportedly killed during the incident.
Earlier videos showed Alamu pleading for negotiation over force, urging President Tinubu and Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene peacefully to save lives. Her latest message directly counters narratives that escalated public outrage and religious tensions.
Reports of the ₦1 billion demand and Sharia law push had circulated widely, prompting strong reactions from Oyo's Muslim community. Leaders condemned the alleged demands, insisting terrorists do not represent Islam.
Fact-checks later questioned the Sharia claim's origins, noting limited verifiable evidence from official sources or direct kidnapper statements. Some traced exaggerated versions to unconfirmed legislative remarks.
The principal's denial adds complexity to the ongoing crisis. It raises questions about information flow from the forest hideout and potential misinformation complicating rescue efforts.
On social media, reactions remain divided. Some users express relief at her clarification, while others suspect coercion or strategic manipulation by the captors. Discussions highlight broader failures in securing schools in the Southwest.
This incident exposes deep vulnerabilities. Despite government assurances of arrests and operations, victims remain in captivity nearly a month later. Families endure agony as conflicting reports swirl.
Authorities have maintained a firm stance against certain negotiations in some quarters, though pressure for dialogue persists. The principal's words underscore the human cost amid political and security debates.
As the situation unfolds, her direct appeal cuts through speculation. Accurate information remains critical to resolving the ordeal without further loss of life. Nigerians watch closely for updates on the victims' fate.
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