Nigerians want action, not promises – Sharia Council tasks govt on insecurity
Supreme Council for Shariah Criticizes Nigeria’s Deteriorating Security Situation
The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has expressed grave concern over the escalating security crisis in the country, calling on the Federal Government to implement urgent measures to safeguard lives and property.
In a statement released by Secretary General Nafi’u Baba-Ahmad, the council highlighted continued incidents of killings, kidnappings, terrorist attacks, and banditry, despite repeated assurances from government officials.
The council described the situation as alarming, citing recent attacks and mass abductions in Borno, Oyo, Niger, and Zamfara states, as well as the kidnapping of a retired army general and his wife in Katsina State. These occurrences underscore the vulnerability of many communities amid ongoing insecurity.
SCSN noted that numerous tragedies do not receive adequate media attention. Reports from security and human rights organizations indicate that thousands have been killed, abducted, or displaced in recent months. “Behind each statistic lies a human story, a life cut short or disrupted, a grieving family, and a community forced to live in fear,” the statement remarked.
The council expressed frustration, stating that appeals from citizens, traditional leaders, religious figures, and civil society for more robust government action have yielded minimal progress. “Nigerians are tired of speeches and promises. What is needed now is decisive action and measurable results,” the statement added.
SCSN emphasized that maintaining security is a constitutional obligation of the government, warning that leaders must either perform their roles effectively or step aside for those who can. “The time has come for those entrusted with leadership to fulfill their responsibilities,” the council stated.
While criticizing the government’s handling of security issues, the council acknowledged the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces and other security agencies. It also called for increased transparency regarding the allocation of security funds, highlighting that trillions of naira have been spent on defense and intelligence operations over the years and that the public deserves clarity on these expenditures.
The group urged authorities to enhance intelligence gathering, technological approaches, border security, inter-agency collaboration, and community engagement as measures to combat criminal networks.
“The nation demands action. The time for excuses has passed. The time for decisive and competent leadership is now,” the statement concluded.
