The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has dismissed reports alleging that kidnappers operating in Oyo State demanded the introduction of Shariah law in the South-West as a condition for releasing abducted school children, describing the claim as false and misleading.

In a statement issued on Monday, MURIC Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, said the report was fabricated and aimed at damaging the image of Islam and misleading the public about the identity of criminal groups operating in the region.

He described the allegation as “a smokescreen,” insisting that it did not reflect the views or ideology of any legitimate Muslim organisation.

“We reject this report. The so-called demand for Shariah was inserted by Muslim-haters among the negotiators, calculated to tarnish the image of Islam,” he said.

Akintola further argued that Nigerian Muslims have no connection with kidnapping, banditry, or terrorism, stressing that such acts are completely contrary to Islamic teachings.

“MURIC wishes to state categorically that Nigerian Muslims have nothing in common with kidnappers, bandits, Boko Haram, and other terrorist groups,” he added.

The group also condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, describing the act as barbaric and un-Islamic. It maintained that those behind the kidnappings cannot represent Muslims or use religion to justify criminal behaviour.

Akintola said individuals involved in such crimes are acting independently and should not be associated with any religious identity or agenda.

He also reiterated MURIC’s position that the push for Shariah courts in the South-West remains a constitutional right of Muslims, insisting it should not be linked to criminal activity or insecurity.

“The Constitution guarantees the right of Muslims to access Shariah courts just as others have access to judicial systems that reflect their faith,” the statement noted.

The organisation urged Nigerians to be cautious of misinformation, warning against attempts to politicise insecurity or associate criminal acts with religion.

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