Kidnappers Demand Release of Terror Suspects, ₦1bn Ransom for Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers

Armed kidnappers holding pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have reportedly outlined conditions for the release of their captives.

The victims were kidnapped on May 15 when gunmen attacked schools in the Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa communities, carting away several students and members of staff.

According to reports, the abductors have made four major demands. These include the release of two detained terrorist leaders, payment of a substantial ransom, provision of two Hilux vehicles, and recognition of Sharia-related legal provisions.

The suspects whose release is being demanded are Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a or Abbas Mukhtar, and his deputy, Abubakar Abba, who is also known by several aliases including Isah Adam, Mahmud Al-Nigeri and Mallam Mamuda.

Both men are alleged members of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimeena Fii Bilaadis Sudan (Ansaru), an extremist group that split from Boko Haram and has been linked to several deadly attacks across Nigeria, including the 2022 attack on the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.

Security sources revealed that the two suspects were arrested between May and July 2025 and are currently facing prosecution before the Federal High Court in Abuja on terrorism-related charges.

Usman was previously convicted in a separate illegal mining case after admitting that proceeds from the activity were used to finance the acquisition of weapons for kidnapping operations and other violent attacks. He remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) while standing trial on additional charges.

Here is a rewritten version of the news story with a fresh headline and improved structure:

FCT Police Arrest Wanted Ammunition Supplier, Recover Weapons and Nab ‘One Chance’ Suspects

June 6, 2026

Kidnappers Demand Release of Terror Suspects, ₦1bn Ransom for Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers

South-West Forests, Highways Under Security Watch as Kidnapping Threat Grows

June 6, 2026

**Women Traditional Worshippers Hold Spiritual Procession for Release of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren** **Women Traditional Worshippers Seek Divine Intervention for Kidnapped Oyo Schoolchildren** Scores of female traditional worshippers from across Egbaland on Friday staged a spiritual procession through major streets and sacred sites in Abeokuta, Ogun State, praying for the safe release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted from Ahoro-Esinle in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Dressed in white traditional attire and carrying ritual objects, the women visited several revered cultural and spiritual locations, where they performed prayers and traditional rites aimed at securing divine intervention in the country's growing security challenges. The procession was led by the Yeye Olokun Agbaye and Olori of Orile-Ilawo Kingdom, Dr. Omolara Fashola-MacGregor, who described the exercise as a sacred mission to seek the assistance of ancestral spirits and deities for the protection of lives and the restoration of peace across Yorubaland and Nigeria. During the spiritual exercise, participants moved through notable shrines and historical landmarks, including Olumo Rock, Lisabi Agbongbo-Akala, and the shrine of the legendary Egba warrior, Sodeke. The procession concluded at the Itoku shrine located at Orita Aje Junction in Abeokuta. At each location, prayers were offered and traditional rituals performed in accordance with longstanding Yoruba cultural practices. The women specifically sought divine intervention for the release of the abducted pupils and teachers, expressing hope that the victims would regain their freedom within seven days. Speaking to journalists during the event, Fashola-MacGregor said the initiative was motivated by concern over the increasing number of innocent Nigerians being held captive by kidnappers. "We have come together to appeal to the deities of our forefathers and the spirits of our heroes to intervene in this troubling situation. Our prayers are focused on the safe return of the abducted schoolchildren, their teachers, and every Nigerian currently in captivity," she said. She noted that the worsening insecurity across many parts of the country requires a collective response involving government authorities, security agencies, religious bodies, traditional institutions and community leaders. According to her, traditional institutions have a significant role to play in fostering peace, unity and social stability within society. "Our ancestors defended these lands and upheld justice. We are seeking their blessings and protection at a time when many families are living in fear and uncertainty," she added. The traditional ruler also offered special prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, and other monarchs across Yorubaland, including her husband, the Olu of Orile-Ilawo Kingdom, Oba Alexander Olusegun MacGregor. The procession attracted the attention of residents, traders and passersby, many of whom watched as the women chanted traditional songs and carried out rituals at designated spiritual centres throughout the city. Participants called on ancestral heroes, protective deities and custodians of the land to assist in addressing the country's security challenges, particularly the growing menace of kidnapping and violent crimes. They expressed confidence that their spiritual efforts would complement ongoing security operations and contribute to the safe return of abducted persons. The event ended with final prayers at the Itoku shrine, where participants collectively sought peace, protection and an end to the wave of kidnappings and insecurity affecting communities across the country. Beyond the immediate concern for the abducted schoolchildren and teachers, the procession also served as a broader appeal for national unity and renewed commitment by all stakeholders to tackle the security challenges threatening lives and livelihoods in Nigeria.

Women Traditional Worshippers Seek Divine Intervention for Kidnapped Oyo Schoolchildren

June 6, 2026

His deputy, Abubakar Abba, has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges and remains on trial.

In addition to demanding the release of the suspects, the kidnappers are said to be seeking a ransom of about ₦1 billion. Reports indicate that the money is expected to be transferred to a bank account located in the Republic of Benin.

Security agencies have yet to officially comment on the latest demands as efforts continue to secure the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers.