If Only Shariah Ruled Nigeria, Kidnappers Would Be Crucified,” Says MURIC

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), The Criterion (an Association of Muslim Women in Business and the Professions) and the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos State Area Unit, have appealed to the government to ensure that anyone involved in kidnappings across the country receives the death penalty.

They said kidnappers have given up any claim to legal courtesies, judicial protocol and human-rights protections, and added that those who murdered some of their victims no longer deserve a dignified trial.

MURIC Director Prof. Is-haq Akintola said the abductors are not of sound mind.

He said, “We pity lawyers who will defend them. Nigerians want to see them tied to the backs of trucks and dragged on the streets of Ogbomosho. Democracy has proved its own weakness here. If Shari’ah were allowed to be used in deciding their case, according to Qur’an 5:33, they would have been nailed to crosses. Then their right hands and left legs would be cut off before they are killed. It would have served as a bitter lesson to other kidnappers. Unfortunately, however, some Nigerians oppose Shari’ah out of ignorance.”

Prof. Akintola praised the security personnel involved in the rescue, and commended the command leadership for patience, professionalism and careful planning. “We are proud of them. At this juncture, it is pertinent to remember those among them who paid the ultimate price. We call for the immortalisation of Lt. Festus Isaac and his late colleague. They must not die in vain. We charge the government to compensate the family of Lt. Isaac,” he said.

The Criterion, through its International Ameerah Hajia Shakirat Shekoni, applauded the government and security operatives for the intelligence-led rescue operation and for reuniting the victims with their families.

“While we celebrate the success in the Old Oyo National Park forest, The Criterion recognises that the fight against terrorism and banditry is far from over. Other schoolchildren, women, and innocent citizens still languish in the dens of kidnappers across various regions of the country. We charge the government and the security architecture not to rest on their laurels, but to use this operation as a blueprint to hasten the rescue of all other captives nationwide. Every Nigerian life is sacred,” she said.

MSSN Lagos Amir (President) Dr. Ajibola Salami said kidnappers should face the full weight of the law.

Dr. Salami said, “Islamic law recognises that proportionate punishment serves as a deterrent against crime. Ensuring that violent criminals are held accountable discourages others from engaging in similar acts and helps maintain law and order and public safety. It is high time Nigeria moved beyond condemnation towards decisive and sustainable solutions. We recommend 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.

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.”

Source: The Nation