The Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) Lagos State Area unit has advocated for capital punishment for convicted terrorists, kidnappers and bandits.
This comes amid the challenges of insecurity rocking the country, which the current administration of President Bola Tinubu is fighting headlong.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, the newly inaugurated Amir (President) of MSSN Lagos, Dr. Ajibola Salami, said the organisation was taking over leadership at a critical period marked by numerous challenges facing the country, calling on citizens to support the government to surmount the daunting challenges.
READ ALSO: MSSN Commends NELFUND, Calls for Speedy Trial of Bandits
He said the organisation acknowledged efforts by security agencies but warned that kidnapping, terrorism, banditry and violent crimes continue to pose serious threats to national development and the safety of students.
The society recommended, ‘’Establishment of Special Anti-Kidnapping, Terrorism and Banditry Courts: Fast-track prosecution of arrested suspects: Stronger collaboration between federal, state and local security structures; Increased deployment of technology-driven security systems; Enhanced protection of schools, campuses and student communities; Greater investment in youth employment and economic opportunities; Imposition of the 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.’’
The organisation condemned criminal activities carried out in the name of religion, stressing that Islam has no place for terrorism, kidnapping or violence against innocent citizens.
“Kidnapping for ransom, attacks on communities, destruction of livelihoods and the terrorisation of innocent citizens are not only crimes against the state but also crimes against humanity and violations of divine injunctions,” Dr. Salami said.
Going Forward
To address the security crisis, the society advocated the establishment of special anti-kidnapping, terrorism and banditry courts, accelerated prosecution of suspects, increased deployment of technology-driven security systems, stronger collaboration among security agencies and enhanced protection for schools and student communities.
MSSN Lagos also called for the maximum penalties permitted by law, including capital punishment where applicable, for convicted kidnappers, terrorists and bandits responsible for loss of lives.
Quality Education
The student body expressed concern over the economic realities facing students and youths, noting that many young Nigerians were struggling to access quality education and meaningful economic opportunities.
While commending the Federal Government for establishing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), MSSN Lagos urged authorities to increase investment in educational infrastructure, research, innovation, scholarships and bursaries.
New Leadership
Salami said the new leadership would focus on educational advancement, youth empowerment, moral development, leadership training, mentorship and the protection of the rights and welfare of Muslim students across Lagos State.
He described the commencement of the Islamic New Year, 1448AH, as symbolic of renewal, sacrifice, resilience and purposeful leadership.
“The commencement of a new Hijrah year coincides with the emergence of a new administration in MSSN Lagos. We therefore view this transition as more than a routine change in leadership; it represents a renewed commitment to service, a fresh sense of purpose and a new dawn for our society,” he said.
The new executives of the society are Dr. Salami, a consultant surgeon, Bro. Ridwan Aderolu, Bro. Hamzah Alagbe, Bro. Abdulkabeer Taiwo Kuye and Bro. Muhammad Mustapha, while the Sisters’ Circle is headed by Hajia Rofiat Tijani.
2027 Elections
Ahead of the 2027 General Elections, MSSN Lagos urged political leaders to prioritise national interest and conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns.
The organisation also encouraged students and youths to participate actively in the democratic process through voter registration, civic engagement and responsible political participation.
“The future of Nigeria will not be shaped by apathy but by informed and responsible citizenship,” Salami said.
Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful coexistence and national unity, MSSN Lagos said it would continue to engage constructively with government and other stakeholders while promoting educational excellence, youth development, religious freedom and responsible citizenship.
