MSSN Demands Special Courts, Death Penalty for Kidnappers, Terrorists

Muslim Students' Society of Nigeria (MSSN)

MSSN Demands Special Courts, Death Penalty for Kidnappers, Terrorists

The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos State Area Unit, has called on the Federal Government to establish special courts to expedite the prosecution of kidnapping, terrorism, and banditry cases across the country. The group also advocated for the imposition of capital punishment on convicted offenders whose actions result in loss of life, describing the current security situation as a national emergency that demands urgent and decisive action.

Speaking during a press briefing on Monday in Lagos to mark the inauguration of the new leadership, the newly elected Amir (President) of MSSN Lagos, Dr. Ajibola Yusuf Salami, said Nigeria must move beyond merely condemning violent crimes and adopt sustainable measures to address the growing insecurity. He stressed that incidents of kidnapping, violent crimes, and attacks on communities continue to generate concern among citizens despite efforts by security agencies to tackle the challenges, adding that “educational institutions and student communities must never become vulnerable targets for criminal elements.”

Salami urged governments at all levels to establish special anti-kidnapping, terrorism, and banditry courts, fast-track the prosecution of suspects, strengthen collaboration among security agencies, deploy technology-driven security systems, and improve the protection of schools and student communities. He also advocated the imposition of the maximum penalties provided by law, including capital punishment where legally applicable, for convicted kidnappers, terrorists, and bandits whose actions result in loss of life and widespread terror.

Speaking from an Islamic perspective, Salami stressed that kidnapping, terrorism, and banditry are grave offences that contradict the teachings of Islam and the values of civilized societies. He cited Qur’an 5:32, which emphasizes the sanctity of human life, noting that Islam strongly condemns acts that endanger innocent people and destabilize communities. The MSSN Lagos president said those involved in kidnapping for ransom, attacks on communities, and acts of terror have departed completely from the principles of Islam and warned that “Nigeria cannot develop in an atmosphere of fear. Security must remain a national priority, and all stakeholders must work collectively to restore public confidence and safeguard lives and property.”

The inauguration coincided with the commencement of the 1448AH Hijrah year, which the organisation described as a period of renewal, leadership, and service. Salami said the new administration would draw inspiration from the lessons of the Hijrah, particularly resilience, strategic planning, unity, and commitment to positive societal transformation. He reaffirmed the society’s commitment to educational advancement, moral development, youth empowerment, and the welfare of Muslim students across Lagos State.

The new leadership is headed by Salami as Amir, with Ridwan Aderolu serving as Naibul Amir (Vice President), Hamzah Alagbe as Naibul Amir for Higher Institution Affairs, Abdulkabeer Taiwo Kuye as Naibul Amir for Graduate Members’ Affairs, and Muhammad Mustapha as General Secretary. The society also announced Hajia Rofiat Tijani as Amirah, leading the Sisters’ Circle, marking a significant step in inclusive representation within the organisation.

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On education, MSSN Lagos commended the Federal Government for establishing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) , noting that the initiative has assisted many students facing financial difficulties to continue their studies. However, the organisation called for increased investment in educational infrastructure, teacher development, research, innovation, and student support programmes, as well as expanded scholarship schemes, bursaries, and targeted interventions for indigent students to prevent financial hardship from limiting access to quality education. The group warned that without sustained investment in education, Nigeria risks losing a generation of potential leaders and innovators.

The group further expressed concern over what it described as persistent violations of the rights of Muslim female students to wear the hijab in some public schools in Lagos State, seven years after a court judgment affirmed that right. According to the organisation, reports continue to emerge from some schools where Muslim female students are allegedly subjected to harassment, intimidation, or restrictions over the use of the hijab. It called on the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the Teaching Service Commission, and school administrators to ensure full compliance with the court ruling across all public schools, warning that continued violations could lead to legal action.

MSSN Lagos also urged Nigerian youths to reject internet fraud, drug abuse, gambling, examination malpractice, and other social vices, stressing that economic hardship cannot justify criminal behaviour. The organisation encouraged young people to embrace honesty, discipline, hard work, and accountability, while equipping themselves with entrepreneurial, technological, and vocational skills to thrive in an increasingly competitive global economy.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the society called on political leaders to place national interest above partisan considerations and urged political parties to focus on issue-based campaigns capable of promoting peaceful and credible elections. Salami expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria and its youth population, pledging that MSSN Lagos would continue to advocate educational advancement, religious freedom, responsible citizenship, and good governance. He further emphasized that the society would not relent in its advocacy for justice, fairness, and the protection of the rights of all Nigerians, regardless of religion or ethnicity.