The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has expressed concern over what it described as growing attempts to portray Nigerian Muslims as responsible for kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, and other forms of violent crime across the country.
The apex Islamic body cautioned against narratives that seek to associate criminal activities with a particular religion, stressing that such characterizations are inaccurate, unfair, and capable of undermining national unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
In a statement issued by the council, the NSCIA noted that criminality is not exclusive to any faith, ethnicity, or region, and warned that generalizing the actions of a few individuals to an entire religious community could deepen divisions and fuel prejudice.
The organization emphasized that Islam, like other major religions, promotes peace, justice, compassion, and respect for human life. It maintained that individuals involved in kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, and related crimes should be identified and prosecuted as criminals rather than being used to stigmatize millions of law-abiding Muslims.
According to the council, the overwhelming majority of Nigerian Muslims are peaceful citizens who contribute positively to national development and have themselves suffered from the effects of insecurity and violent crimes.
The NSCIA observed that communities across northern and central Nigeria, many of which are predominantly Muslim, have been among the worst affected by attacks from bandits, terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal elements. As such, it argued that portraying Muslims as perpetrators while ignoring the fact that many are also victims presents a distorted picture of the country’s security challenges.
The council further urged political leaders, media organizations, civil society groups, and members of the public to exercise caution in their public statements and reporting of security issues. It called for responsible communication that focuses on criminal conduct rather than religious identity.
The Islamic body stressed that combating insecurity requires collective action by all Nigerians irrespective of faith or ethnic background. It encouraged citizens to support security agencies, provide credible intelligence, and promote mutual understanding among different communities.
The NSCIA also reiterated its commitment to interfaith dialogue and cooperation with other religious organizations in addressing national challenges. It noted that religious leaders have an important role to play in promoting peace, countering extremism, and discouraging hate speech.
Security experts have long warned against the religious profiling of criminal activities, arguing that such narratives can complicate efforts to tackle insecurity by creating unnecessary tensions between communities. They maintain that criminal networks are often driven by economic, political, and social factors rather than religious doctrines.
The council therefore called on Nigerians to reject stereotypes and work together in confronting the country’s security challenges. It emphasized that the fight against kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, and other forms of violence should be guided by facts, justice, and respect for the rights and dignity of all citizens.
As the nation continues to grapple with insecurity, the NSCIA urged government authorities, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to strengthen collaboration aimed at promoting peace, national cohesion, and sustainable solutions to the country’s security concerns.
