Execute all convicted bandits, kidnappers – Islamic cleric charges govt
Islamic Cleric Advocates Death Penalty for Bandits and Kidnappers in Ondo State
A prominent Islamic cleric in Ondo State, Sheikh AbdulRauf Ajiboye Lagbaji, has called on government officials at all levels to enforce the death penalty for individuals convicted of banditry and kidnapping. He argued that those guilty of such crimes should not be allowed to reintegrate into society.
Lagbaji made his remarks during a lecture at the Ashura Day celebration hosted by the Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria (MMPN) in Akure. The event, themed “Ashura: Navigating Peaceful Pathways Amidst Hostilities: What Are the Practical Relevance in Contemporary Nigeria?” focused on the importance of peace amidst national challenges.
The cleric expressed concern that allowing convicted criminals back into society poses additional risks. He specifically urged Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to ensure the execution of those convicted in relation to the 2022 Owo church massacre.
“It is imperative for our government to carry out the death penalty on any bandit or kidnapper found guilty,” Lagbaji stated. He referenced Islamic teachings, noting that the Qur’an mandates the death penalty for intentional murder. “The government must enforce the death penalty on those involved in the Owo church attack.”
Lagbaji further emphasized that Islam considers the Diya, or blood money, for a murder equivalent to approximately N200 million, underscoring the religion’s stringent stance against murder. “What rationale does the government have for permitting those who perpetrate such heinous acts to return to society?” he asked.
He also advocated for legal reforms, urging lawyers to refrain from defending individuals accused of banditry and kidnapping, and called for constitutional amendments to ensure immediate execution for such crimes.
In addition to calls for tougher penalties, Lagbaji encouraged Muslims and all Nigerians to strive for peace, highlighting the spiritual significance of Ashura as a time to devote oneself to Allah and promote goodwill.
The Grand Imam of Akure Kingdom, Alhaji AbdulHakeem Yayi-Akorede, echoed the importance of political engagement, urging Muslims in Ondo State to participate more actively in governance to secure better representation.
Yayi-Akorede characterized Ashura as a day for fasting, prayer, and reflection rather than celebration, and called on Muslims to observe it with sincerity while praying for the nation’s progress. “Nigeria belongs to all its citizens,” he stated, urging support for governmental initiatives aimed at tackling national issues.
Prince Leke Adegbite, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ondo State, raised concerns about the underrepresentation of Muslims in state political appointments. He encouraged Islamic leaders to continue engaging with political stakeholders to advocate for fair representation.
The Chairman of the MMPN in Ondo State, Mallam Jubril Bada, noted that the event aimed to inspire Muslims to enhance their practices of worship, charity, and prayer while reflecting on the significance of Ashura.
