The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has made a heartfelt and passionate appeal to those currently holding innocent children and their teachers in captivity to release them in the fear of Almighty Allah.
In a deeply emotional message rooted in compassion, mercy, and the teachings of Islam, the revered Islamic leader called on the abductors to reflect upon the boundless forgiveness and mercy of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, reminding them that no sin is beyond divine pardon when accompanied by sincere repentance.
Quoting from the Glorious Qur’an, the Grand Chief Imam referenced Surah Az-Zumar Verse 53:
“Say: O My servants who have transgressed against their own souls, do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Truly, He is the Oft-Forgiving, the Most Merciful.”
He also cited Surah An-Nisa Verse 110:
“And whoever does evil or wrongs himself but afterwards seeks Allah’s forgiveness will find Allah Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”
The Grand Chief Imam emphasised that these sacred verses serve as eternal reminders of Allah’s open door of mercy and forgiveness for every soul willing to return to righteousness.
According to him:
“I hereby beg you in the mightiest name of Allah سبحانه وتعالى to release these innocent children and their teachers still under your custody. Let compassion prevail over cruelty, and let humanity triumph over pain and sorrow.”
He further emphasised the emotional trauma being experienced by the families of the victims. He pleaded that the abducted children and their teachers be allowed to reunite with their loved ones in time to observe the forthcoming Eid al-Adha celebrations.
“Please, please and please, let them celebrate Eid al-Adha with their families and with us,” the Grand Chief Imam passionately appealed.
The respected Islamic scholar concluded his message with prayers for Allah’s mercy upon all humanity, asking Almighty Allah to forgive sins, overlook shortcomings, and keep everyone steadfast upon faith.
