The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation across the country, urging the Federal Government to take urgent and decisive measures to curb the escalating wave of killings, kidnappings, terrorism and banditry.
In a statement issued by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, the Council lamented that Nigerians continue to wake up daily to reports of violent crimes despite repeated assurances from government officials that security challenges are being effectively addressed.
According to the Council, the security crisis has reached an alarming level, citing recent incidents in Borno, Oyo, Niger and Zamfara states as evidence of the persistent vulnerability of communities already burdened by years of insecurity.
The Council also referenced the recent abduction of a retired Army General and his wife in Katsina State, describing the incident as further proof of the growing influence of criminal groups and the expanding threat posed by kidnappers and armed gangs.
It noted that numerous attacks occurring in rural and underserved communities often go unreported, suggesting that the true scale of the crisis may be far greater than reflected in official records and media reports.
Citing reports from security monitoring and human rights organisations, the Council said thousands of Nigerians have been killed, abducted or displaced in recent months. It further pointed to reports indicating that more than 1,000 people were kidnapped across northern Nigeria during the first quarter of the year.
The Council expressed disappointment that repeated calls by traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders for stronger security interventions have yet to produce 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 read.
The Council reminded the Federal Government that safeguarding lives and property remains one of its fundamental constitutional responsibilities, stressing that no administration can be considered successful while large parts of the country remain vulnerable to criminal activities.
While acknowledging the sacrifices and commitment of military personnel and other security operatives engaged in various operations nationwide, the Council clarified that its criticism was directed at what it described as broader shortcomings in leadership and strategy in addressing the security crisis.
The Council also called for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public funds allocated to the security sector, arguing that citizens deserve to know how resources earmarked for defence and intelligence operations are being utilised.
It urged the government to embrace more innovative and proactive security measures, including improved intelligence gathering, deployment of modern technology, stronger inter-agency collaboration, enhanced community participation and more effective border control.
Warning against complacency, the Council said Nigerians now expect competent leadership, concrete action and measurable progress in restoring peace and security across the country.
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