Yoruba Imams, Alfas decry rising insecurity in Nigeria, South-West

The League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland has called on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and property across Nigeria, urging authorities to arrest and prosecute those responsible for kidnapping, ritual killings, armed robbery and other violent crimes.

The appeal was contained in a statement issued in response to recent cases of abductions and insecurity in Oyo State and other parts of the country.

The statement was signed by the President of the League and Chief Imam of Ado-Ekiti, Jamiu Bello Kewulere, alongside other prominent Islamic leaders, including AbdulGaniy Abubakri Agbotomokekere and Muhammad Habibullah Adam Abdullahi El-Ilory.

The League expressed deep concern over the growing insecurity in parts of Yorubaland and Nigeria, particularly the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

According to the Islamic body, attacks targeting innocent children, educators and law-abiding citizens are unacceptable and contradict the teachings of Islam, which upholds the sanctity of human life, peace and social harmony.

The group urged security agencies at all levels to strengthen efforts aimed at securing communities and ensuring that those behind criminal activities are brought to justice without delay.

It also called on parents, teachers, religious leaders, youth groups and community stakeholders to remain vigilant and support initiatives designed to safeguard schools and public institutions.

“As the foremost Islamic umbrella body representing the Muslim Ummah across Yorubaland, we are deeply disturbed by these unfortunate developments,” the statement read.

“We therefore call upon security agencies at all levels to intensify their efforts towards securing lives and property and ensuring that perpetrators of these heinous crimes are brought to justice without delay.”

The League disclosed that it had commenced special prayers and spiritual engagements across Yorubaland, seeking divine intervention for the restoration of peace and security in the region and the country at large.

The organisation further encouraged mosques, Islamic groups, traditional institutions and community leaders to promote vigilance, unity and cooperation with lawful authorities in addressing security challenges.

The religious leaders expressed optimism that with effective leadership, stronger security measures and collective commitment from citizens, Nigeria would overcome its current difficulties and achieve greater stability and prosperity.

The League also congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the third anniversary of his administration, acknowledging the economic difficulties faced by Nigerians following reforms such as fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange adjustments.

While noting the hardship experienced by many citizens, the group said it recognised the Federal Government’s efforts to implement policies aimed at long-term economic sustainability and national development.

The League prayed for wisdom, strength and divine guidance for President Tinubu, expressing hope that his administration would successfully address the nation’s economic and security challenges while delivering peace, stability and prosperity for all Nigerians.

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