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By Lukman Olabiyi
The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos State Area Unit, has called for the imposition of capital punishment on convicted kidnappers, terrorists and bandits whose actions result in loss of lives, describing insecurity as one of the greatest threats to Nigeria’s development.
The call was made on Monday during a press briefing in Lagos by the newly inaugurated Amir (President) of MSSN Lagos, Dr. Ajibola Yusuf Salami.
Salami said the society was assuming leadership at a challenging period characterised by economic hardship, insecurity, rising educational costs, unemployment and growing social problems affecting young Nigerians.
He stated that the new administration would prioritise educational advancement, youth empowerment, moral development, leadership training, mentorship, and the protection of the rights and welfare of Muslim students across Lagos State.
According to him, the commencement of the Islamic New Year, 1448 AH, symbolises renewal, sacrifice, resilience and purposeful leadership.
“The commencement of a new Hijrah year coincides with the emergence of a new administration in MSSN Lagos. We therefore view this transition as more than a routine change in leadership; it represents a renewed commitment to service, a fresh sense of purpose and a new dawn for our society,” Salami said.
The new executive council includes Dr. Salami, a consultant surgeon, alongside Ridwan Aderolu, Hamzah Alagbe, Abdulkabeer Taiwo Kuye and Muhammad Mustapha, while the Sisters’ Circle is headed by Hajia Rofiat Tijani.
Expressing concern over the economic realities facing students and youths, the society noted that many young Nigerians were struggling to access quality education and meaningful economic opportunities.
While commending the Federal Government for establishing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), MSSN Lagos urged increased investment in educational infrastructure, research, innovation, scholarships and bursaries.
On insecurity, the organisation acknowledged the efforts of security agencies but maintained that kidnapping, terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes continue to threaten national development and the safety of students.
To tackle the challenge, MSSN Lagos advocated the establishment of special anti-kidnapping, terrorism and banditry courts to ensure speedy prosecution of suspects. It also called for stronger collaboration among federal, state and local security structures, increased deployment of technology-driven security systems, enhanced protection of schools and campuses, and greater investment in youth employment opportunities.
The society further urged authorities to impose the maximum penalties prescribed by law, including capital punishment where legally applicable, on convicted kidnappers, terrorists and bandits responsible for loss of lives and widespread terror.
“Kidnapping for ransom, attacks on communities, destruction of livelihoods and the terrorisation of innocent citizens are not only crimes against the state but also crimes against humanity and violations of divine injunctions,” Salami said.
The organisation condemned criminal activities perpetrated in the name of religion, stressing that Islam does not support terrorism, kidnapping or violence against innocent citizens.
“Nigeria cannot develop in an atmosphere of fear. Security must remain a national priority,” the society stated.
MSSN Lagos also praised the Lagos State Government for its investments in youth development, entrepreneurship and digital innovation programmes, urging that such initiatives be expanded to tackle unemployment and create more opportunities for young people.
The society pledged to complement government efforts through mentorship programmes, entrepreneurship training, leadership development initiatives and capacity-building opportunities for students and young professionals.
It also expressed concern over the growing prevalence of internet fraud, drug abuse, gambling, cultism and examination malpractice among some youths.
“While economic challenges may contribute to frustration among young people, they can never justify criminal behaviour. True success is built on integrity, not shortcuts,” Salami said.
The society revisited the issue of hijab rights in public schools, noting that seven years after a landmark court judgment affirming the right of Muslim female students to wear the hijab, reports of harassment and restrictions still persist in some schools.
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.
“Seven years after the court’s pronouncement, the focus should no longer be on debating or restricting the use of the hijab, but on ensuring that every student can learn in an atmosphere of dignity, inclusion and respect for constitutionally guaranteed rights,” the society said.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, MSSN Lagos urged political leaders to place national interest above personal ambitions and conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns.
The organisation also encouraged students and youths to participate actively in the democratic process through voter registration, civic engagement and responsible political participation.
“The future of Nigeria will not be shaped by apathy but by informed and responsible citizenship,” Salami said.
Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful coexistence and national unity, MSSN Lagos said it would continue to engage constructively with government and other stakeholders while promoting educational excellence, youth development, religious freedom and responsible citizenship.
“We remain optimistic about the future of Nigeria and its youth population. With the support of Allah, we shall continue to advocate responsibly and work tirelessly towards a society where students can thrive academically, spiritually and socially,” the Amir added.
