The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs has expressed concern over the persistent insecurity across the country, warning that the continued wave of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism threatens Nigeria’s democratic gains.
The Council also rejected what it described as attempts to profile Nigerian Muslims by linking them to criminal activities committed by a few individuals.
In a Democracy Day message issued on Thursday by its public affairs officer,Abbas Jimoh congratulated Nigerians on the 27th anniversary of uninterrupted democratic governance.
The Council said June 12 remained a significant date in Nigeria’s history, noting that it symbolised the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy, constitutional rule and the enthronement of the rule of law.
It stated that democracy could only thrive where justice, accountability, inclusion and respect for human dignity prevailed.
While acknowledging progress recorded since the return to civil rule, the NSCIA said worsening insecurity had continued to exact a heavy toll on innocent citizens.
According to the Council, banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other violent crimes have disrupted livelihoods, displaced communities and undermined national development.
“The Council unequivocally condemns all acts of violence and criminality and, for the umpteenth time, admonishes those involved to abandon and repudiate their destructive activities,” the statement read.
It added that insecurity had become a national burden requiring collective efforts from all stakeholders to overcome.
The NSCIA maintained that Islam neither condoned nor permitted the shedding of innocent blood, kidnapping, banditry, terrorism or any form of criminal conduct.
The Council, however, expressed concern over what it called unfortunate attempts in some quarters, both within and outside Nigeria, to associate Nigerian Muslims with acts of criminality.
It described such narratives as false, misleading and unfair to millions of law-abiding Muslims contributing positively to national development.
The NSCIA cited the recent kidnapping of students and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, saying attempts were made to criminalise Islam and Muslims over the incident.
It noted that subsequent developments and the identities of suspects arrested in connection with the case had contradicted the earlier claims that sought to portray the perpetrators as Fulani Muslims.
The Council urged Nigerians to desist from giving crimes ethnic or religious colouration, insisting that offenders should be identified by the crimes they committed and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“It is enough that Nigerian Muslims themselves are victims of not only terrorism but also discrimination and persecution. It is sad that they are also being falsely criminalised for being the perpetrators,” it stated.
The NSCIA further called on the media, opinion leaders and other stakeholders to exercise professionalism, accuracy and fairness in their reports and public commentaries.
It warned that narratives capable of inflaming tensions and deepening mistrust among Nigeria’s diverse communities should be avoided.
The Council commended the efforts of the Federal Government, security agencies and community leaders in tackling insecurity and urged greater collaboration to restore peace and stability across the country.
It also offered prayers for security personnel, asking Allah to strengthen and protect them in their efforts to safeguard lives and property.
The NSCIA prayed that the sacrifices of the heroes of Nigeria’s democratic struggle would never be in vain and wished Nigerians a peaceful Democracy Day celebration.
