Security not responsibility of govt alone – Islamic cleric tells Oyo residents

An Islamic cleric and the first Muqaddamul Wai’zeen of Oyo State, Sheikh Abdul-Mu’min Shehu Usman, has called all Imams, Islamic organizations, traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and all well-meaning citizens of the state to unite in confronting the challenges of insecurity.

Usman made the call in a statement made available to DAILY POST on Thursday.

The Islamic cleric who doubles as the Chief Imam of Kere in Ogbomoso, explained that security is not the responsibility of government alone, noting that it is a collective trust (amanah) that requires the cooperation and vigilance of every member of society.

Usman while speaking in the recent happenings in the state, condemned the recent abduction of students and teachers in Oriire local government area.

He appealed to the security agencies to intensify efforts towards the release of the victims.

In view of the happenings in the state, Usman appealed to Muslims to dedicate at least two minutes after every obligatory prayer to supplicate for the safety and swift release of all teachers, pupils and other innocent persons in captivity.

He added that parents and community leaders should strengthen cooperation with schools and relevant authorities on matters relating to safety and security.

He also urged young people to channel their energy into education, skill acquisition, community development, and peace-building initiatives.

Usman said, “Accordingly, we call upon all Imams, Islamic organizations, traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and all well-meaning citizens of Oyo State to unite in confronting the challenges of insecurity. Security is not the responsibility of government alone; it is a collective trust (amanah) that requires the cooperation and vigilance of every member of society.

“Islam is a religion of peace, justice, mercy, and human dignity. Corruption, banditry, kidnapping, and all forms of criminality constitute manifestations of fasād fi al-arḍ (mischief and corruption on earth), which Islam strongly condemns. Genuine peace can only flourish where justice prevails, truth is upheld, and the sanctity of human life is respected.

“We therefore urge all Muslims to become ambassadors of peace in their homes, schools, marketplaces, places of worship, roads, and online platforms. Let our words promote harmony, our actions reflect compassion, and our conduct embody the noble teachings of Islam.

“Therefore, we strongly demand the immediate and unconditional release of all teachers and pupils currently held in captivity. We call upon security agencies at all levels to intensify their efforts toward securing their freedom and restoring confidence in our educational institutions. We also call upon the captors to fear Allah and desist from actions that violate the sanctity of innocent lives.

“In view of the foregoing, we make the following appeals: All Muslims should dedicate at least two minutes after every obligatory prayer to supplicate for the safety and swift release of all teachers, pupils, and other innocent persons in captivity. Parents and community leaders should strengthen cooperation with schools and relevant authorities on matters relating to safety and security.

“Young people should channel their energy into education, skill acquisition, community development, and peace-building initiatives. Members of the public should verify information before sharing it, especially on social media, as misinformation can endanger lives and undermine security efforts.

“Religious and traditional leaders should continue to promote unity, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence among all members of society. We pray to Allah Almighty to protect our communities, preserve our schools, safeguard our scholars, teachers, and students, and grant lasting peace and security throughout Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.

“O Allah, improve the condition of the Muslims, grant them security and peace, protect our scholars, teachers, and students, free those in captivity, and establish justice and tranquility in our land. Āmīn.”

Security not responsibility of govt alone – Islamic cleric tells Oyo residents