The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the country, calling on the Federal Government to urgently intensify efforts to curb killings, kidnappings, terrorism, and banditry.
In a statement issued by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, the Council said Nigerians continue to face daily reports of violent attacks despite repeated government assurances that the security challenges are being addressed.
It noted that recent incidents in states such as Borno, Oyo, Niger, and Zamfara underscore the growing vulnerability of communities already affected by prolonged insecurity across parts of the country.
The Council also cited the reported abduction of a retired Army General and his wife in Katsina State, describing it as evidence of the expanding reach of criminal networks and the rising threat posed by kidnappers and armed groups.
According to the statement, many attacks in rural and hard-to-reach communities go unreported, suggesting that the actual scale of insecurity may be higher than official figures indicate. It further referenced reports from security and human rights organisations alleging that thousands of Nigerians have been killed, abducted, or displaced in recent months, including claims that over 1,000 people were kidnapped in northern Nigeria in the first quarter of the year.
The Council lamented that repeated calls by traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society groups for stronger security interventions have yet to produce significant results.
“Nigerians are tired of speeches, promises, condolences, committees and official rhetoric that are not matched by concrete action and measurable outcomes,” the statement read, urging decisive and visible steps to address the crisis.
It stressed that the protection of lives and property remains a constitutional duty of government, adding that no administration can be deemed successful while large parts of the country remain exposed to violent crime.
While commending the efforts and sacrifices of security personnel across various operations, the Council said its criticism was directed at broader issues of leadership, coordination, and strategy in tackling insecurity.
It also called for improved transparency and accountability in the management of security-related funds, insisting that citizens deserve clarity on how defence and intelligence budgets are utilised.
The Council urged the adoption of more proactive measures, including strengthened intelligence gathering, deployment of modern security technology, enhanced inter-agency cooperation, community participation, and tighter border controls.
It warned against complacency, adding that Nigerians now expect measurable progress in restoring peace and stability across the country.
