Ramadan: Group tasks FG, Security agencies to curb kidnapping, insurgency, others

Estimated reading time: 7 minute(s)

Faruq Kushoro

Muslim Media Watch Group of Nigeria (MMWGN) has tasked the federal government and security agencies across the country to find a lasting solution to the lingering cases of kidnapping, insurgency and communal clashes threatening the country’s existence.

The group made this statement in a press release signed by it Ogun State Co-coordinator, Alh Kamaldeen Akintunde where he urged Muslims faithful to be security conscious and mindful of their safety while engaging in “iba’dah”/acts worship.

He stated that with the commencement of Ramadan and against the backdrop of incessant kidnapping and violence being perpetrated in some parts of the country, Muslim faithful are enjoined to be mindful of their safety and be security conscious while engaging in their acts of worship, especially nocturnal related undertakings and activities that may predispose them to the nefarious activities of the insurgent groups and other forms of violence.

Akintunde urged leaders and authorities of various Muslim institutions, groups, and mosques to be proactive in ensuring a safe and secure environment for the faithful seeking to maximise the benefits of the glorious month.

His words, “It is worrisome that government’s concerted effort has not yielded an appreciable result, hence the need for the central authority to redouble effort at addressing the recurring decimal and ensure Nigeria remains a safe country for both citizens and immigrants.

“Government must not hesitate in bringing in experts on security issues to help find a solution to the lingering cases of kidnapping, insurgency and communal clashes threatening our corporate existence. Stakeholders must rise up to the challenges and come up with blueprints that will check the menace.

“Security agencies must step up collaborative efforts and synergize in ending insurgency and banditry.

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“Nigerians must also strengthen communal efforts and device local and traditional measures that will stem the tide of kidnapping and banditry that have become lucrative to some people at the expense of fellow Nigerians.”

The coordinator, however, implored preachers, scholars, and leaders against provocative preaching and inflammatory utterances in order not to heat the polity.

“Preachers, scholars and leaders are implored against provocative preaching and inflammatory utterances rather their preaching and speeches should focus on virtues that promote peace, unity, intra and inter-religious harmony, development and good governance.

“Also, the faithful’s are equally implored to use the opportunity of the glorious month to pray fervently for a smooth transition to the next dispensation”.