NSCIA Urges Renewed Commitment to Peace, Security, and National Development on Democracy Day
Abuja, June 11, 2026 — The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on Nigerians to recommit to peace, security, justice, and national development as the country marks Democracy Day 2026.
In a statement issued Thursday by Public Affairs Officer Abbas Jimoh, the Council, led by President-General Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, congratulated Nigerians on 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance and paid tribute to those who fought for democracy, constitutional rule, and the rule of law.
The Council noted that June 12 remains a defining date in Nigeria’s history. It serves as a reminder that democracy thrives only where justice, accountability, inclusion, and respect for human dignity are upheld.
While acknowledging progress in Nigeria’s democratic journey, NSCIA expressed concern over persistent security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and other criminal acts. According to the Council, these threats continue to claim innocent lives, disrupt livelihoods, displace communities, and hinder national development.
The Islamic body strongly condemned all forms of violence and criminality and urged those involved to abandon such acts. It extended sympathies to victims of insecurity and their families, stressing that insecurity affects all Nigerians and requires collective action to overcome.
NSCIA reiterated that Islam does not condone the shedding of innocent blood, kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, or any other criminal conduct, emphasizing that such acts violate the teachings of the religion.
The Council also expressed concern over attempts by some individuals and groups, within and outside Nigeria, to associate Nigerian Muslims with crimes such as banditry and kidnapping. It described this religious profiling as false, misleading, and unfair to millions of law-abiding Muslims who contribute positively to national development.
Referring to the recent kidnapping of students and teachers in Orire Local Government Area, Oyo State, the Council said emerging facts have disproved efforts to link the crime to Islam, Shariah, or the Fulani ethnic group. It cited commentary by academic and columnist Farooq Kperogi, who cautioned against spreading misinformation and exploiting the tragedy for propaganda.
According to NSCIA, criminal acts should not be given religious or ethnic labels, as doing so deepens divisions, fuels mistrust, and undermines efforts to tackle insecurity. The Council urged the media, opinion leaders, and other stakeholders to uphold professionalism, fairness, and accuracy in reporting on crime and security.
The Council commended the Federal Government, security agencies, and community leaders for their efforts to combat insecurity, while calling for stronger collaboration among all stakeholders to restore peace and stability nationwide.
NSCIA concluded by praying for the safety and success of security personnel, and expressed hope that the sacrifices of Nigeria’s democratic heroes would continue to inspire national unity and progress.
“Happy Democracy Day to all Nigerians,” the statement added.
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