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The Muslims Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) Lagos State Area unit has advocated capital punishment for convicted terrorists, kidnappers and bandits, among other offenders, to serve as deterrent to others.
Dr. Ajibola Yusuf Salami, noted this during a press briefing at Alausa, in Lagos, on Monday, amid challenges of insecurity in the country.
Salami, who is the newly-inaugurated Amir (President) of MSSN Lagos, said the organisation was taking over leadership at a critical period marked by economic hardship, insecurity, rising educational costs, unemployment and increasing social challenges confronting young Nigerians.
He promised that 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.
According to him: “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.”
The new executives of the society include Dr. Salami, a consultant surgeon, Bro. Ridwan Aderolu, Bro. Hamzah Alagbe, Bro. Abdulkabeer Taiwo Kuye and Bro. Muhammad Mustapha, while the Sisters’ Circle is headed by Hajia Rofiat Tijani.
The student body, who expressed concern over the economic realities facing students and youths, 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 authorities to increase investment in educational infrastructure, research, innovation, scholarships and bursaries.
On insecurity, the organisation acknowledged efforts by security agencies but warned that kidnapping, terrorism, banditry and violent crimes continue to pose serious threats to national development and the safety of students.
The society recommended, ‘’Etstablishment 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 MSSN Lagos condemned criminal activities carried out in the name of religion, stressing that Islam has no place for terrorism, kidnapping or violence against innocent citizens.
“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,” Dr. Salami said.
To address the security crisis, the society advocated the establishment of special anti-kidnapping, terrorism and banditry courts, accelerated prosecution of suspects, increased deployment of technology-driven security systems, stronger collaboration among security agencies and enhanced protection for schools and student communities.
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 MSSN Lagos said the state government for its investments in youth development, entrepreneurship and digital innovation programmes, noting that such initiatives should be expanded to address unemployment and create more opportunities for young people.
It pledged to complement government efforts through mentorship programmes, entrepreneurship training, leadership development initiatives and capacity-building opportunities for students and young professionals.
MSSN Lagos further 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,” Dr. Salami said.
The society also 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 judgment.
“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 stated.
Ahead of the 2027 General Elections, MSSNLagos urged political leaders to prioritise national interest 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.
While reaffirming its commitment to peaceful coexistence and national unity, MSSNLagos 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 said.
