Sharia Council decries rising insecurity, demands govt action

The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria has raised concerns over the deteriorating security situation across the country, urging the Federal Government to take immediate and decisive measures to curb the growing wave of killings, kidnappings, terrorism and banditry.

In a statement issued by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Ahmad, the Council said Nigerians continue to be confronted with daily reports of violent attacks despite repeated assurances from authorities that efforts are being made to improve security.

The Council described the situation as alarming, citing recent incidents in Borno, Oyo, Niger and Zamfara states as evidence that many communities remain vulnerable to criminal activities.

It also pointed to the recent abduction of a retired Army General and his wife in Katsina State, saying the incident underscored the expanding reach of criminal groups and the persistent threat posed by kidnappers and armed gangs.

According to the Council, many attacks occurring in rural and remote communities are often not reported, suggesting that the true scale of insecurity may be far greater than official figures indicate.

Referencing reports by security monitoring and human rights organisations, the Council noted that thousands of Nigerians have been killed, abducted or displaced in recent months. It added that over 1,000 people were reportedly kidnapped across northern Nigeria during the first quarter of the year.

The Council expressed disappointment that repeated calls by traditional rulers, religious leaders and civil society groups for stronger security measures have not produced the desired 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 stressed that safeguarding lives and property remains a fundamental constitutional responsibility of government, arguing that no administration can be considered successful while large parts of the country remain exposed to insecurity.

While acknowledging the sacrifices of military personnel and other security operatives, it said its criticism was aimed at broader leadership and strategic shortcomings in addressing the crisis.

The Council further called for greater transparency in the management of security funds, insisting that citizens deserve to know how resources allocated to defence and intelligence operations are being utilised.

It urged the government to strengthen intelligence gathering, deploy modern technology, improve inter-agency collaboration, promote community participation and tighten border security as part of efforts to restore peace and stability.

The Council warned against complacency, insisting that Nigerians now expect effective leadership, concrete action and measurable progress in tackling insecurity nationwide.