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 called on government to ensure those involved in kidnappings across the country received capital punishment.

According to them, the kidnappers deserve no legal courtesy, no judicial protocol, no human rights obligations, adding that they cast away the right to a dignified trial the day they murdered some of their victims.

MURIC Director Prof Is-haq Akintola said the kidnappers do not belong to the community of homo sapiens compos mentis.

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 hailed the security agents involved in the rescue as well as the leadership of the commands for their patience, professionalism and meticulous 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, International Ameerah of Hajia Shakirat Shekoni, lauded the government and security operatives for their resoluteness in executing the intelligence-led rescue operation and reuniting these victims with their families.

“While we celebrate the success in the Old Oyo National Park forest, The Criterion recognizes that the fight against terrorism and banditry is far from over. There remain other schoolchildren, women, and innocent citizens languishing in the dens of kidnappers across various regions of the country. We charge the government and the security architecture not to rest on their oars, 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 the kidnappers should be made to 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 contributes to the maintenance of law, order, and public safety. It is high time Nigeria must move 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.” (The Nation News)

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