The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on Nigerians to recommit themselves to peace, security, justice and national development, while condemning attempts to associate Islam and Nigerian Muslims with criminal activities across the country.
In a statement marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, the Council said the anniversary of June 12 should serve as a reminder of the values of justice, accountability, inclusion, and respect for human dignity that are essential to democracy’s survival.
The statement, signed by the Council’s Public Affairs Officer, Abba Jimoh, on behalf of the President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule and paid tribute to the heroes of the democratic struggle whose sacrifices paved the way for constitutional governance.
According to the NSCIA, while Nigeria has made notable progress in its democratic journey, the country continues to grapple with serious security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other violent crimes.
“These threats continue to claim innocent lives, destroy livelihoods, displace communities and impede national development,” the Council said.
The Islamic epex body strongly condemned all forms of violence and criminality, urging those engaged in such acts to renounce their activities and embrace lawful pursuits.
It expressed sympathy for victims of insecurity and their families, stressing that the challenge affects all Nigerians irrespective of religion, ethnicity or social status.
The Council reiterated that Islam does not condone the killing of innocent people, kidnapping, terrorism, banditry or any other form of criminal conduct.
At the same time, the NSCIA voiced concern over what it described as persistent efforts in some quarters to portray Nigerian Muslims as being responsible for acts of violence and criminality.
It said such attempts amounted to unfair religious profiling and ignored the fact that millions of Muslims across the country continue to contribute positively to national development while also suffering the consequences of insecurity
The Council specifically referenced the recent kidnapping of students and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, noting that early attempts to link the incident to Islam, Shariah and the Fulani ethnic group had since been contradicted by subsequent investigations.
According to the NSCIA, available information on suspects arrested in connection with the incident did not support the initial claims that sought to give the crime a religious or ethnic identity.
The Council also cited comments by media scholar Farooq Kperogi, who argued that the tragedy did not require misinformation, speculation or propaganda to underscore its gravity.
Describing ethnic and religious profiling as dangerous and counterproductive, the NSCIA urged Nigerians to judge criminals by their actions rather than their faith or ethnic background.
“Criminality should neither be given ethnic nor religious colouration. Such narratives only deepen divisions and undermine collective efforts to tackle insecurity,” the statement said.
The Council called on media organisations, commentators and public figures to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy and fairness in reporting security-related matters.
It warned that sensational or divisive narratives could inflame tensions and weaken national cohesion at a time when unity is most needed.
The NSCIA also commended the efforts of the Federal Government, security agencies and community leaders in confronting insecurity, while calling for stronger collaboration among all stakeholders to restore peace and stability across the country.
As Nigerians celebrate Democracy Day, the Council urged citizens to remain steadfast in promoting national unity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
It also offered prayers for members of the nation’s security agencies, asking for divine protection and strength as they continue to safeguard lives and property.
“The sacrifices of the heroes of Nigeria’s democratic struggle should inspire all citizens to work together in building a peaceful, secure and prosperous nation,” the Council stated.
