MSSN Lagos advocates special courts, tougher action against kidnapping, terrorism

THE Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos State Area Unit, has called on the Federal Government to establish special courts to expedite the prosecution of kidnapping, terrorism and banditry cases across the country.

The organisation made the call at a press briefing in Lagos to mark the inauguration of its new leadership.

Speaking at the event, the newly elected Amir (President) of MSSN Lagos, Dr. Ajibola Yusuf Salami, said Nigeria must move beyond condemning violent crimes and adopt sustainable measures to address growing insecurity.

He urged governments at all levels to establish special anti-kidnapping, terrorism and banditry courts, fast-track the prosecution of suspects, strengthen collaboration among security agencies, deploy technology-driven security systems and improve the protection of schools and student communities.

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Salami also advocated the imposition of maximum penalties provided by law, including capital punishment where legally applicable, for convicted kidnappers, terrorists and bandits whose actions result in loss of life and widespread terror.

According to him, incidents of kidnapping, violent crimes and attacks on communities continue to generate concerns among citizens despite efforts by security agencies to address the challenges.

“Educational institutions and student communities must never become vulnerable targets for criminal elements,” he said.

The inauguration coincided with the commencement of the 1448AH Hijrah year, which the organisation described as a period of renewal, leadership and service.

Salami said the new administration would draw inspiration from the lessons of the Hijrah, particularly resilience, strategic planning, unity and commitment to positive societal transformation.

He reaffirmed the society’s commitment to educational advancement, moral development, youth empowerment and the welfare of Muslim students across Lagos State.

The new leadership is headed by Salami as Amir, with Ridwan Aderolu serving as Naibul Amir (Vice President), Hamzah Alagbe as Naibul Amir for Higher Institution Affairs, Abdulkabeer Taiwo Kuye as Naibul Amir for Graduate Members Affairs and Muhammad Mustapha as General Secretary.

The society also announced Hajiya Rofiat Tijani as Amirah, leading the Sisters’ Circle.

On education, MSSN Lagos commended the Federal Government for establishing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), noting that the initiative had assisted many students facing financial difficulties to continue their studies.

However, the organisation called for increased investment in educational infrastructure, teacher development, research, innovation and student support programmes.

It also advocated expanded scholarship schemes, bursaries and targeted interventions for indigent students to prevent financial hardship from limiting access to quality education.

The group expressed concern over what it described as persistent violations of the rights of Muslim female students to wear the hijab in some public schools in Lagos State, seven years after a court judgment affirmed the right.

According to the organisation, reports still emerge from some schools where Muslim female students are allegedly subjected to harassment, intimidation or restrictions over the use of the hijab.

It called on the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the Teaching Service Commission and school administrators to ensure full compliance with the court ruling across all public schools.

MSSN Lagos also urged youths to reject internet fraud, drug abuse, gambling, examination malpractice and other social vices, stressing that economic hardship could not justify criminal behaviour.

The organisation encouraged young people to embrace honesty, discipline, hard work and accountability, while equipping themselves with entrepreneurial, technological and vocational skills.

Ahead to the 2027 general elections, the society called on political leaders to place national interest above partisan considerations and urged political parties to focus on issue-based campaigns capable of promoting peaceful and credible elections.

Salami said the new administration would prioritise academic excellence, student welfare, leadership development, youth empowerment, moral and spiritual growth, community service and strategic engagement with government and other stakeholders.

He expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria and its youth population, pledging that MSSN Lagos would continue to advocate educational advancement, religious freedom, responsible citizenship and good governance.