By Sadiq Abdulfatah

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has strongly condemned the recent attack on Government Day Secondary School in Lassa, Borno State, saying the incident highlights the continuing threat of terrorism to lives, education and national security.

In a statement signed by its Public Affairs Officer, Abbas Jimoh, the council said the killing of a teacher and the abduction of several students and teachers were disturbing, describing the repeated attacks on schools as crimes against humanity.

The NSCIA noted that the continued targeting of schools was unacceptable, expressing concern that many victims of previous attacks in Borno and Oyo states are still being held by their abductors.

According to the council, the attackers exploited Lassa’s market day to gain access to the community before launching the assault. It said the incident showed that terrorist groups continued to adopt new methods while taking advantage of security lapses.

The council urged the government to strengthen intelligence gathering and surveillance, improve coordination among security agencies and expand community-based early warning systems to help prevent similar attacks. It also pointed to Enugu State’s technology-based security initiative as an example that could be adopted in other parts of the country.

The NSCIA commended troops of Operation HADIN KAI for rescuing some of the victims, but stressed that efforts should continue until everyone still in captivity is safely reunited with their families.

It also paid tribute to the soldier and member of the Civilian Joint Task Force who lost their lives during the rescue mission, while extending its condolences to the Borno State Government, the management of the school and families of those affected.

The council maintained that Boko Haram and ISWAP have no connection with the teachings of Islam, describing both groups as enemies of Islam and humanity. It stressed that the killing of innocent people, the abduction of children and attacks on schools have no place in the religion.

The NSCIA further called on the authorities to ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice. It said arresting and prosecuting those behind acts of terrorism remained essential to restoring lasting peace and security across the country.

Source: Daily post