Stop giving ethnic, religious colouration to banditry, kidnapping – Islamic Council
Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs Denounces Misrepresentation of Muslims
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has issued a statement rejecting claims that Nigerian Muslims are involved in kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes. The council denounced these portrayals as misleading and detrimental to the majority of Muslims who contribute positively to national development.
In a statement signed by spokesperson Abbas Jimoh, the council emphasized the significance of national unity, especially on the occasion of Nigeria’s Democracy Day. “Recent efforts by some individuals and groups to associate Islam and Muslims with criminal activities were unjust and dangerous,” the statement read.
The NSCIA referenced a recent kidnapping incident in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, highlighting attempts to link the crime to specific ethnic or religious groups. The council called for suspects to be identified and prosecuted based on concrete evidence, rather than their identity, stressing that criminal acts should not be colored by ethnicity or religion.
The statement also noted the broader security challenges facing Nigeria, including terrorism and banditry, which have resulted in loss of life, displacement of communities, and hindered development.
The NSCIA expressed sympathy for the victims and families affected by these crimes and condemned all forms of violence. It urged those involved in criminal activities to cease such actions.
Moreover, the council urged media representatives and opinion leaders to report responsibly, avoiding narratives that could foster division or mistrust among citizens. It acknowledged the efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies in addressing insecurity and called for enhanced cooperation to restore peace in the country.
