Controversial social commentator VeryDarkMan (VDM) has expressed deep shock and concern over the alleged outrageous demands made by bandits who abducted dozens of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, suggesting the conditions point to a larger hidden agenda.
The bandits, who attacked schools in Oriire Local Government Area, reportedly killed one teacher during the raid and another while in captivity. They are said to be holding around 45 pupils and seven teachers.
According to circulating reports, the terrorists’ conditions for releasing the captives include paying ₦1 billion into an account in Benin Republic, releasing their members from Agodi and Abolongo Prisons, supplying two Hilux vehicles, and amending Oyo State laws to enforce Sharia law.
Reacting strongly in a video that has gone viral, VeryDarkMan raised alarm over the inclusion of Sharia law in the demands.
“This demand from these terrorists, especially the part of Sharia law, goes further to strengthen what has been on the lips of a lot of people, that there’s an agenda to Islamise Nigeria.”
VDM referenced historical jihadist efforts by Usman Dan Fodio and expressed fears that modern insurgents may be continuing similar missions. However, he was quick to note that the majority of Nigerian Muslims do not support such extremism.
“Even if there’s an agenda to Islamise Nigeria, 80 per cent of Muslims in Nigeria will not be part of this doctrine of these terrorists.”
The outspoken activist highlighted the devastating impact of such groups on Muslim communities, stating that terrorists have killed more Muslims than Christians in states like Borno, Katsina, and Zamfara. He also pointed out internal divisions within Islam in Nigeria, particularly how some sects view Yoruba Muslims.
VeryDarkMan questioned the government’s response to the growing threat:
“Every day these people are gaining strength. What is the government doing about it? Because if nothing is done, this agenda will continue to spread.”
He further expressed bewilderment at the bandits’ confidence in demanding funds be sent to Benin Republic, asking whether there could be cross-border complicity.