NAPAIS debunks insinuation of Sharia law implementation as part of negotiation, says Banditry is Unislamic
The National Association of Proprietors of Arabic and Islamic Schools (NAPAIS) has cautioned against linking banditry and other criminal activities to Islam, describing the religion as one that promotes peace, justice and respect for human life.
The association said attempts to portray the abductors of schoolchildren and teachers in the Esinle-Ahoro and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as acting in pursuit of Islamic ideals are misleading and capable of creating religious tension.
Speaking through its President, Sheikh Muhammad Jamiu Abdulgafaar, NAPAIS specifically condemned claims that the abductors demanded the implementation of Sharia law as a condition for the release of the victims, insisting that no credible evidence exists to support such assertions.
In a statement personally signed in Ibadan, Abdulgafaar said the association carried out inquiries into the allegation and found no report from government authorities, security agencies or any authorised source indicating that Sharia law formed part of the kidnappers’ demands.
According to him, Islam remains an antithesis to criminality and should not be associated with acts of kidnapping, banditry and violence.
“Bandits are criminals, not representatives of any religion. Islam is a religion of peace and does not condone kidnapping, violence or any form of criminality. It is therefore wrong and irresponsible to link criminal actions to Islam without evidence,” he stated.
The NAPAIS president described the claim as false, unfounded and the handiwork of individuals bent on spreading misinformation and sowing discord among religious groups.
He challenged anyone in possession of credible information suggesting otherwise to present verifiable evidence, noting that those handling the security situation have not made any such disclosure.
Abdulgafaar, who also serves as Acting Chairman of the Coalition of Non-State Schools in Oyo State (CONSOSS), said the association has maintained close engagement with the Oyo State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and other stakeholders since the abduction occurred, stressing that no authorised channel has reported any demand relating to Sharia law.
He urged religious leaders, public commentators and other stakeholders to exercise caution in discussing the incident and to avoid spreading unverified information capable of inflaming passions or undermining the harmonious relationship among adherents of different faiths in Oyo State and across the country.
The educationist warned that false narratives surrounding the abduction could distract attention from ongoing efforts to secure the release of the victims and foster unnecessary suspicion among communities.
While expressing appreciation to churches, mosques and well-meaning Nigerians who have continued to pray for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers, Abdulgafaar also commended the Oyo State Government and security agencies for their efforts to rescue the victims and restore normalcy to the affected communities.