The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged all citizens, irrespective of their religious beliefs, to unite in order to defeat the scourge of terrorism in the country.
The Sultan made the call while welcoming the rescue of 44 abducted teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
In a statement by his media team, Abubakar congratulated the victims who regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity.
According to him, the rescue will serve as a renewed source of hope for Nigeria in the fight against insecurity.
The Sultan expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for preserving the lives of the victims and commended the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, and the nation’s security and intelligence agencies for their dedication and coordinated efforts.
He noted that while the successful operation deserves commendation, it also highlights the imperative of sustained vigilance and stronger collaboration among the government, security agencies, and citizens to tackle insecurity nationwide.
The Sultan, however, called on the Federal Government, the Borno State Government, and all relevant security agencies to demonstrate the same level of urgency, determination, and commitment in securing the speedy rescue and safe release of schoolchildren recently abducted in Borno State.
“Every Nigerian life is equally precious and deserving of protection,” he added.
The Sultan also enjoined all Nigerians to reject every form of criminality, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, ritual killings, and other violent crimes.
“Since no religion teaches or encourages criminality, Nigeria will become a safer and stronger nation if members of all faiths unite to confront criminals within their communities and support efforts to rid every part of the country of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, ritualism, and every other form of violent crime,” he said.
While congratulating the rescued pupils and their teachers for surviving the traumatic ordeal, the Sultan prayed for their complete physical, emotional, and psychological recovery.
The Sultan further appreciated President Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, the Service Chiefs, and all security and intelligence agencies for their commitment, urging them to sustain ongoing efforts until every abducted Nigerian, regains freedom.
