By Monsurat Abisoye
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has dismissed attempts to associate Nigerian Muslims with kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes, describing such claims as misleading, unfair and harmful to national unity.
In a statement issued to mark Democracy Day and signed by its spokesperson, Abbas Jimoh, the council stressed that the vast majority of Muslims in Nigeria are peace-loving citizens who contribute positively to national development across various sectors.
The NSCIA condemned what it described as recent efforts by some individuals and groups to link Islam and Muslims with criminal activities, warning that such narratives are unjust and dangerous to social cohesion.
Referencing the recent kidnapping incident in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, the council criticised attempts to connect the crime to specific ethnic or religious groups. It maintained that suspects should be identified and prosecuted strictly on the basis of evidence, rather than identity, and cautioned against giving criminal acts ethnic or religious colouration.
The council also expressed concern over Nigeria’s broader security challenges, including terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, which it said continue to result in loss of lives, displacement of communities and setbacks to national development.
It extended sympathy to victims and their families, while strongly condemning all forms of violence and urging those involved in criminal activities to desist.
The NSCIA further called on the media and public commentators to exercise responsibility in their reporting, warning against narratives that could deepen divisions or erode trust among Nigerians.
While acknowledging the efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies in addressing insecurity, the council urged stronger collaboration among stakeholders to restore peace and stability across the country.