Yoruba Imams, Alfas condemn rising insecurity in Nigeria, S’West

THE League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland has implored security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the lives and property of all Nigerians, irrespective of tribe or religion.

The League also appealed to security agencies to arrest and prosecute criminal elements responsible for kidnapping, ritual killings, armed robbery and other criminal activities across the country.

The League made the appeal in a statement issued in reaction to recent cases of abduction 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, Sheikh Jamiu Bello Kewulere, and several other leaders of the body, including the Life Grand Patron and Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh AbdulGaniy Abubakri Agbotomokekere; and Mudiru-l-Markaz and Chairman, Board of Trustees, Sheikh Muhammad Habibullah Adam Abdullahi El-Ilory.

The League, in the statement made available to journalists on Thursday in Ibadan, expressed concern and sadness over the recent wave of insecurity in some parts of Yorubaland and Nigeria in general.

It noted that it was particularly disturbed by the abduction of pupils and teachers in in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

According to the League, such criminal acts against innocent children, educators and law-abiding citizens are unacceptable, condemnable and contrary to the teachings of Islam.

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It added that Islam places great value on the sanctity of human life, security and social harmony.

The League therefore appealed to security agencies at all levels to intensify efforts toward securing the lives and property of all Nigerians.

It also urged security agencies to ensure that perpetrators of these heinous crimes are brought to justice without delay.

The League appealed to parents, teachers, religious leaders, youth organisations and community stakeholders to remain vigilant and continue supporting efforts aimed at protecting schools, communities, and public institutions.

The statement added: “As the foremost Islamic umbrella body and spiritual authority representing the Muslim Ummah across Yorubaland (South-West Nigeria), we are deeply disturbed by these unfortunate developments.

“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 has commenced special prayers, supplications and spiritual engagements throughout Yorubaland, seeking Allah’s intervention for the restoration of the peace, security and harmony that have historically characterised our region.

“We urge all mosques, Islamic organisations, traditional institutions, community leaders and citizens to join hands in promoting vigilance, unity and cooperation with lawful authorities.

“As fathers, scholars and spiritual elders of the Muslim community in Yoruba Land, it remains our sacred responsibility to offer sincere counsel, continuous prayers and constructive support for all initiatives that promote justice, peace, security and national progress.

“We remain hopeful that with collective efforts, sincere leadership, effective security measures, and the mercy of Almighty Allah, Nigeria shall overcome its present difficulties and emerge stronger, safer, and more prosperous.

“May Allah restore lasting peace to every community in Yorubaland and throughout Nigeria. May Allah protect our children, teachers, security personnel and all citizens. May Allah bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“The League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland also uses this opportunity to congratulate the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the third anniversary of his administration.”

“We acknowledge that the nation has faced significant economic challenges arising from the removal of fuel subsidy, foreign exchange instability, inflationary pressures, and other inherited structural difficulties.

“While these challenges have placed burdens on many Nigerians, we recognise the efforts of the Federal Government in pursuing reforms aimed at long-term national development and economic sustainability.

“We pray that Almighty Allah grants President Tinubu wisdom, strength, good health, and divine guidance in steering the affairs of our nation.

“We equally pray that his administration succeeds in overcoming current challenges and delivering greater prosperity, security, and stability to all Nigerians.”