The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has sharply criticized the federal government’s inability to curb escalating violence across the country, calling for immediate and effective measures to safeguard citizens. In a statement delivered by its Secretary General, Nafi’u Baba-Ahmad, the council emphasized that Nigerians are growing weary of official pronouncements that yield no tangible results.
According to the council, the nation is grappling with a severe crisis marked by frequent kidnappings, terrorist assaults, banditry, and other violent crimes. Despite repeated government pledges to address these threats, the situation continues to deteriorate, leaving communities vulnerable. Recent attacks in states such as Borno, Oyo, Niger, and Zamfara, along with the abduction of a retired army general and his wife in Katsina, illustrate the depth of the problem.
The SCSN noted that many tragic incidents remain unreported, while data from security agencies and human rights groups indicate that thousands have been killed, kidnapped, or displaced in recent months. “Each figure represents a human tragedy—a life lost or shattered, a family in mourning, and a community trapped in fear and uncertainty,” the statement read.
The council voiced frustration over the lack of progress despite repeated appeals from citizens, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society. “Nigerians are exhausted by speeches, condolences, committees, and official rhetoric that lack substance. What is needed now is decisive action and measurable outcomes,” it stated.
The SCSN underscored that ensuring security is a constitutional duty of the government, not a favor to the people. It warned that leaders must either fulfill their responsibilities effectively or step aside for those who can. “The time has come for those in charge to either perform or relinquish their positions to capable hands,” the council asserted.
While harshly criticizing the government’s performance, the SCSN praised the armed forces and other security personnel for their dedication and sacrifices. It also demanded greater transparency in the utilization of security funds, noting that trillions of naira have been allocated to defense and intelligence with little improvement. The council argued that citizens deserve answers on how these resources have been spent as insecurity worsens.
The group called for enhanced intelligence gathering, adoption of advanced technology, stronger border controls, improved inter-agency cooperation, and increased community engagement to dismantle criminal networks. “The nation demands action. The era of excuses is over. Now is the moment for competent and decisive leadership,” the statement concluded.