The Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, Dr. Yunus Teliat Olushina Ayilara II, has urged the Nigerian government to impose the death penalty on bandits responsible for the abduction of schoolchildren, teachers, and a principal in Yawota and Esin-Ele communities of Oriire Local Government Area in Oyo State.
Speaking during a Jumat sermon delivered in Yoruba on Friday in Ogbomoso, the cleric strongly condemned kidnapping and banditry, insisting that criminals involved in such acts should not be granted amnesty after arrest.
Ayilara stated that anyone found guilty of kidnapping and killing innocent citizens should face execution after proper investigation and confirmation of their crimes.
According to him, Islamic teachings do not support forgiveness for individuals responsible for violent crimes such as abduction and murder.
The cleric also expressed outrage over the killing of a Mathematics teacher by bandits, describing the act as cruel and devastating to society.
He noted that Mathematics teachers play a critical role in shaping the future of young people, adding that many students struggle academically because of the subject.
Ayilara said the slain teacher had chosen to serve his community by educating children despite opportunities for better-paying careers elsewhere.
He criticised the idea of granting amnesty to bandits, questioning the justification for pardoning individuals involved in violent crimes against innocent people.
The Islamic leader stressed that people who commit acts of kidnapping and murder should be punished according to the law, rather than forgiven.
His comments come amid growing concerns over insecurity and repeated attacks on schools and rural communities across Nigeria, with many residents calling for tougher action against kidnappers and armed bandits.
