The Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, Imam Yunus Olushina Teliat (Ayilara II), has stated that he’s not a sympathiser of terrorism, banditry and criminal elements in any shape or form.

According to him, his only focus remains on praying for the peace of the land and the safety of its citizens.

Teliat said this in a statement on Sunday amid what he described as utterly baseless allegations circulating in the media, following the abduction of some schoolchildren and their teachers by terrorists who invaded Ogbomoso.

He said, “I must state unequivocally and in the strongest possible terms: I, Imam Yunus Olushina Teliat (Ayilara II), PhD, am not a sympathiser of terrorism, banditry or criminal elements in any shape or form. I do not condone, excuse, or tolerate acts of criminality under any guise whatsoever.”

The Chief Imam of Ogbomoso stated that throughout his spiritual stewardship and academic life, he has consistently stood on the pillars of justice, peace, and the sanctity of human life. According to him, in numerous Friday sermons(Khutbahs) and public lectures, he had issued clear Fatwahs strongly condemning terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry as severe violations of Islamic jurisprudence and crimes against humanity.

“I have gone as far as publicly abandoning ambiguity and calling for capital punishment to be meted out by the state to anyone found culpable in these heinous acts, as a deterring measure to protect the innocent and preserve the fabric of our society.

“It is therefore deeply shocking and disheartening that certain unscrupulous elements are attempting to taint my hard-earned reputation,” he said.

The cleric issued a strict notice to the public, particularly bloggers, vloggers, and social media users, to cease and desist forthwith from associating his name, office, or person with these terrible acts or any form of criminality.

He revealed that his legal team has already been fully briefed and has commenced decisive legal action against specific individuals who have made these reckless, defamatory, and libellous statements.

“We will not hesitate to prosecute any further purveyors of falsehood to the fullest extent of the law.

“In conclusion, I offer my continuous prayers for Oyo State and for all victims of terrorism, banditry, and insecurity across the length and breadth of Nigeria,” he said.