***Demands End To Ethnic, Religious Profiling As Insecurity Bites Hard
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs has urged Nigerians to recommit themselves to peace, security, justice and national development as the nation marks the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The Council, led by its President-General, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, congratulated Nigerians on 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule and paid tribute to heroes who fought for democracy, constitutional governance and the rule of law.
In a statement signed by its Public Affairs Officer, Abbas Jimoh, the NSCIA described June 12 as a reminder that democracy can only thrive where justice, accountability, inclusion and respect for human dignity prevail.
While acknowledging progress in Nigeria’s democratic journey, the Council raised the alarm over worsening insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other violent crimes ravaging communities across the country.
According to the Islamic body, the persistent threats have continued to claim innocent lives, destroy livelihoods, displace communities and slow national development.
“The Council unequivocally condemns all acts of violence and criminality and once again calls on those involved to abandon their destructive activities,” it declared.
The NSCIA insisted that Islam does not support kidnapping, terrorism, banditry or the shedding of innocent blood, stressing that criminals should never be shielded under religion.
The Council also condemned attempts by some individuals and groups to portray Nigerian Muslims as sponsors of criminality, describing such claims as false, unfair and misleading.
Citing the recent abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, the Council noted that investigations had debunked attempts to link the incident to Islam or Shariah.
It also frowned at ethnic profiling, saying the identities of suspects arrested in connection with the crime contradicted earlier allegations that they were Fulani.
“Anyone who commits a crime should be identified by the offence committed and prosecuted according to the laws of the land,” the Council stated.
The NSCIA further noted that many Muslims have themselves suffered terrorism, persecution and discrimination, warning against criminalising an entire religious community because of the actions of a few individuals.
The Council urged the media, opinion leaders and stakeholders to embrace professionalism, fairness and accuracy in reporting security issues, cautioning against narratives capable of fuelling division and tension.
It also commended the Federal Government, security agencies and community leaders for ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity and called for stronger collaboration to restore peace nationwide.
As Nigerians celebrate Democracy Day, the NSCIA expressed hope that the sacrifices of the nation’s democratic heroes would continue to inspire unity, peace and progress across the country.
