The Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) has expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity in the country, calling for urgent and intensified efforts by the government and security agencies to tackle the menace of banditry, abductions, and killings.
The council, led by His Eminence Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and His Eminence Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar, Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), highlighted the recent spate of violence that has left many Nigerians in a state of fear and uncertainty.
In a statement released on Tuesday by NIREC’s Executive Secretary, Fr. Prof. Cornelius Omonokhua, the religious leaders condemned the recent attacks, including the murder of 13 farmers in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, the abduction of 150 people in Gobir District of Sokoto State, and the brutal killing of the District Head of Gatawa, also in Sokoto State.
“The rate at which banditry, abductions, and killings are increasing in the country is beyond alarming, and there is a need to bring these heinous acts to an end,” the statement read.
NIREC urged the government and security forces to ramp up their efforts to restore peace and security across the nation, emphasizing that citizens should be able to go about their daily lives without the constant fear of violence.
The council also extended its condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in these attacks and expressed hope for the safe return of those still held in captivity.
“The Council would also like to commiserate with the families of all those who lost their lives because of these disdainful acts and also pray that all those still in captivity will be safely reunited with their loved ones,” the statement continued.
The religious leaders further stressed that security is a collective responsibility, calling on all Nigerians to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
They urged the public to support government efforts in combating these security challenges.
“Lastly, the Council calls on all Nigerians to be cautious, vigilant, and report any suspicious activity, as security is a collective effort and not just the responsibility of the government alone,” NIREC stated.
The council’s call to action comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with multiple security challenges, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, and communal clashes in various parts of the country.
As the situation deteriorates, the pressure is mounting on the government to take decisive steps to protect citizens and restore peace.
