‎UPDATED: Stop Linking Bandits to Islam — Oyo Muslim Leaders

The Muslim Community of Oyo State has condemned social stereotypes suggesting that bandits are Islamic people, stating that criminals involved in kidnappings should not be associated with Islam, as they are individuals acting outside religious teachings.

The position was taken on Sunday at the Yidi Praying Ground in Agodi, Ibadan, where Islamic clerics and faithfuls gathered to seek divine intervention over rising cases of banditry, kidnappings, and other criminal activities across the state and country.

‎The prayer session, held with the approval of the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdulganiy Agbotomokekere, brought together Islamic clerics, community leaders, and worshippers from the 11 local government areas of Ibadan land.

‎Leaders at the gathering emphasized the importance of unity among Nigerians, noting that collective action and harmony across ethnic and political lines remain key to overcoming insecurity challenges.

Delivering a lecture at the event, Sheikh Muyideen Onihantu, said the prayer was organised to seek God’s intervention over insecurity that has left many citizens distressed, adding that the gathering cut across ethnic groups including Yoruba, Hausa, Nupe, and Tapa communities.

‎According to Sheikh, unity, faith, and support for government efforts are essential in addressing insecurity, while urging Nigerians to avoid political and tribal divisions.

“The essence of the prayer is to seek God’s face over the insecurity that has robbed citizens of peace of mind,” he said.

Also speaking, Chief Imam of Sabo, Sheikh Ibrahim Abdullahi, expressed appreciation for the gathering and prayed for the safe return of abducted students and teachers, while calling on the government to intensify efforts for quicker rescue operations.

‎The Secretary-General of the Muslim Community, Abidemi Siyanbade, lamented recent abductions in Oyo State, warning that the spread of banditry into the South-West must be urgently checked.

He also clarified that criminals behind kidnappings should not be associated with Islam, describing them as individuals acting outside religious teachings.

Siyanbade urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and support security agencies by providing timely intelligence, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.