The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria has raised alarm over the deteriorating security situation in the country, urging the Federal Government to urgently adopt firm and effective measures to curb the rising cases of killings, kidnappings, terrorism and banditry.
In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, the Council lamented that Nigerians continue to wake up daily to disturbing reports of violent attacks despite repeated assurances from authorities that the security situation is under control.
According to the Council, the situation has become increasingly alarming, with recent attacks in Borno, Oyo, Niger and Zamfara States underscoring the exposure of communities already burdened by years of insecurity.
It also cited the recent abduction of a retired Army General and his wife in Katsina State, describing it as further proof of the expanding reach of criminal networks and the growing boldness of kidnappers and armed groups.
The Council noted that many violent incidents in rural and hard-to-reach communities often go unreported, raising concerns that the true scale of insecurity may be far worse than official figures and media reports suggest.
Referencing reports from security monitors and human rights organisations, the Council stated that thousands of Nigerians have been killed, abducted or displaced in recent months, adding that more than 1,000 people were reportedly kidnapped across northern Nigeria in the first quarter of the year.
It expressed disappointment that repeated calls from traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups and other stakeholders for stronger security responses have not produced meaningful results.
“Nigerians are tired of speeches, promises, condolences, committees and official rhetoric that are not matched by concrete action and measurable outcomes. What the nation requires now is decisive intervention and visible results,” the statement said.
The Council reminded the Federal Government that safeguarding lives and property is its primary constitutional duty, stressing that no administration can be deemed successful while large parts of the country remain vulnerable to criminal attacks.
While commending the efforts and sacrifices of military and other security personnel engaged in various operations, the Council clarified that its criticism was directed at what it described as broader weaknesses in leadership and strategy in tackling insecurity.
It further called for increased transparency and accountability in the use of funds allocated to the security sector, insisting that Nigerians deserve clarity on how resources meant for defence and intelligence are being spent.
The Council also urged government to adopt more proactive and innovative security strategies, including stronger intelligence gathering, deployment of modern technology, improved inter-agency coordination, greater community involvement, and tighter border management.
Warning against complacency, the Council stressed that Nigerians now expect competent leadership, concrete action and measurable progress in restoring peace and security across the country.
