Muslim scholars urge FG to combat insecurity

Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ibrahim Layode

Source: X (@hon_oil)

Kindly share this story:

The Nigeria Association of Teachers of Arabic and Islamic Studies has called on the Federal Government to take urgent and decisive action to address insecurity in the country.

The religious leaders stated that the “increasing incidents of violence and kidnappings” were a threat not only to national stability but also to social cohesion.

According to a statement shared with Sunday PUNCH, they made the call during a book presentation titled, Modern Trends in Arabic and Islamic Studies in the memory of Emeritus Professor, Ismail Balogun, at the Lagos State University on Saturday.

In his address, National President NATAIS, Prof Musa Abdu-Raheem, said the government should go on with the present efforts to curb the huge challenge in the country.

He advised the government to stop negotiating with terrorists, adding that they should be dealt with ruthlessly as criminals that they are.

Abdu-Raheem stated, “Islam recommends capital punishment for murderers and the same is prescribed by the law of the land. Beyond that, the Government owes it a duty to improve social and infrastructural facilities to improve the quality of life generally.”

Also speaking, Lagos Chairman of NATAIS, Prof. Paramole Kabir Olawale, said the government should prioritise the citizens’ safety and welfare.

He stated, “They should equip the security agents with modern war weapons and apparatuses. More importantly, create job opportunities and employment for the jobless in society. Every geopolitical zone in Nigeria is witnessing one insecurity issue or another.”

Speaking on the matter, Lagos Secretary of NATAIS, Dr Sidiq Okanlawon, stated, “In order to secure the country, the Government needs to find solutions to our porous borders, fight food insecurity, unemployment, discourage ethnic profiling of a particular tribe, and facilitate institutionalising state police.”

The Chief Imam of Lagos State University, Prof. Olayinka Amuni, stated that the government should show serious commitment and political will power in combating terrorism.

He said, “The Government should deploy technology in the fight against terrorism: intelligence gathering, aerial surveillance, use of drones and effective and efficient deployment of the Air force.”

Speaking about the book, the Vice Chancellor of Kwara State University, Prof. Lukman Jimoh, described the festschrift as a remarkable tribute to the life, intellectual achievements, and moral legacy of the late Emeritus Professor.

He stated, “It brings together a wide circle of scholars whose lives and careers were shaped by his example. The book reflects not only admiration for a teacher but also a deep recognition that his impact continues to inspire fresh scholarship and new ways of thinking about Islam, Arabic studies, and life in a pluralistic society.

“Readers are reminded that in every field, a few individuals rise above the ordinary to leave footprints that do not fade. Professor Balogun was one of such individuals.”

At the event, the Deputy Governor, who was the Principal Guest, was represented by the Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ibrahim Layode.

Kindly share this story:

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]

UPDATE NEWS: Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25Million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, 👉 click here to find out how it work (Be sure to ask for evidence of clients that have benefitted from this)

Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!

Stay in the know—fast. Get instant alerts, breaking headlines, and exclusive stories with the Punch News App. Download now and never miss a beat.