The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has condemned the recent terrorist attack on Government Day Secondary School in Lassa, Borno State, describing terrorism as a grave threat to Nigeria’s peace and security.
In a statement issued by its Public Affairs Officer, Abbas Jimoh, the council described the attack, which claimed the life of a teacher and led to the abduction of several students and teachers, as a tragic reminder of the need for intensified efforts to combat insurgency.
The NSCIA said the recurring attacks on schools, involving the kidnapping and killing of innocent students and teachers, are unacceptable and amount to crimes against humanity.
The council also expressed concern that many victims of previous school attacks in Borno and Oyo states remain in captivity, urging security agencies to intensify rescue efforts to secure their release.
According to the statement, the attackers exploited Lassa’s market day to infiltrate the community before launching the assault, highlighting the evolving tactics of terrorist groups and the need for stronger security measures.
The council called on the Federal Government and security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, surveillance, inter-agency collaboration, and community-based early warning systems to prevent future attacks. It also cited Enugu State’s technology-driven security initiative as a model that could be adapted in other parts of the country.
The NSCIA commended the Armed Forces, particularly troops of Operation HADIN KAI, for rescuing some of the abducted victims, while urging them to sustain operations until all those still in captivity are 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, extending condolences to the Borno State Government, the management of Government Day Secondary School, and the families of those affected.
Reaffirming its position against violent extremism, the council stated that Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) are enemies of both Islam and humanity, stressing that those responsible for killing innocent people, abducting children, and attacking schools do not represent the teachings of Islam.
The NSCIA further urged the government to ensure that those behind acts of terrorism are apprehended, prosecuted, and punished in accordance with the law, expressing hope that sustained action would help restore lasting peace and security across the country.
Post comments (0)