The Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) Lagos State Area Unit has advocated for capital punishment for convicted terrorists, kidnappers and bandits.
At a press briefing in Lagos, the newly inaugurated Amir (president) of MSSN Lagos, Dr Ajibola Yusuf Salami, said the organisation was taking over leadership at a period marked by economic hardship, insecurity, rising educational costs, unemployment, and the increasing social challenges confronting young Nigerians.
Salami said the new leadership would focus on educational advancement, youth empowerment, moral development, leadership training, mentorship and the protection of the rights and welfare of Muslim students across Lagos State.
He described the commencement of the Islamic New Year, 1448AH, as symbolic of 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,” he said.
The new executives of the society are Dr Salami, a consultant surgeon, and Bro. Ridwan Aderolu, Bro. Hamzah Alagbe, Bro. Abdulkabeer Taiwo Kuye and Bro. Muhammad Mustapha, while Hajia Rofiat Tijani heads the Sisters’ Circle.
The student body expressed concern over the economic realities facing students and youths, noting 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 authorities to increase investment in educational infrastructure, research, innovation, scholarships and bursaries.
Regarding insecurity, the organisation acknowledged the efforts of security agencies. Still, it warned that kidnapping, banditry and violent crimes continue to pose serious threats to national development and the safety of students.
The society recommended, ‘’Establishment of Special Anti-Kidnapping, Terrorism and Banditry Courts: Fast-track prosecution of arrested suspects: Stronger collaboration between federal, state and local security structures; Increased deployment of technology-driven security systems; Enhanced protection of schools, campuses and student communities; Greater investment in youth employment and economic opportunities; 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.’’
The organisation condemned criminal activities carried out in the name of religion, stressing that Islam has no place for terrorism, kidnapping, or violence against innocent citizens.
’’ Kidnappings, 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,” Dr Salami said.
MSSN Lagos also called for the maximum penalties permitted by law, including capital punishment where applicable, for convicted kidnappers, terrorists and bandits responsible for loss of lives.
“Nigeria cannot develop in an atmosphere of fear. Security must remain a national priority,” the society stated.
The organisation praised the Lagos State government for its investments in youth development, entrepreneurship and digital innovation programmes, saying such initiatives should be expanded to address unemployment and create more opportunities for young people.
