The Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland, Imam Yunus Olushina Teliat (Ayilara II), has strongly denied allegations linking him to terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities, describing the claims as false, malicious, and defamatory.
The respected Islamic cleric also called on both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to intensify efforts toward securing the immediate release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted from communities in Oyo State.
Imam Teliat’s reaction follows a wave of allegations circulated on social media platforms and some online blogs accusing him of having connections with criminal elements responsible for insecurity in parts of the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Chief Imam expressed deep concern over the abduction of pupils and teachers from the communities of Ahoro, Esin-Ele, and Yawota, describing the incident as heartbreaking and a source of great pain to families and residents.
“It is with a heavy heart but an unwavering faith in Almighty Allah that I address our immediate community of Oyo State and the global public,” the cleric stated.
According to him, his recent sermons, prayers, Juma’at services, and Eid Khutbahs have been dedicated to seeking divine intervention and the safe return of the victims.
“Over the past couple of weeks, my thoughts, prayers, Juma’at and Eid Khutbahs have been entirely consumed by the deeply distressing news of the abduction of our dear schoolchildren and dedicated teachers in the communities of Ahoro, Esin-Ele, and Yawota. As a father, a spiritual leader, and a citizen, I feel the profound weight of the trauma and agony that these innocent families are currently enduring,” he said.
The Chief Imam extended his sympathy to the affected families and urged security agencies to intensify operations aimed at rescuing the victims and bringing perpetrators to justice.
While distancing himself from the allegations against him, Imam Teliat warned individuals and online platforms spreading what he described as falsehoods to desist immediately, revealing that legal action had already been initiated against those responsible.
“Let it be known that my legal team has already been fully briefed and has actively commenced taking decisive legal actions against specific individuals who have made these reckless, defamatory, and libelous statements,” he said.
He further warned that anyone found disseminating similar allegations would face legal consequences.
“We will not hesitate to prosecute any further purveyors of falsehood to the fullest extent of the law,” he declared.
The Islamic leader concluded by offering prayers for peace, stability, and security across Nigeria, while calling for the safe return of all victims of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.
His intervention comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State, where residents continue to demand stronger government action against kidnappers and criminal gangs operating within rural communities.