In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.
The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN), as a foremost body committed to justice, equity, and the promotion of peaceful coexistence, finds it necessary to further elaborate on the grave concerns surrounding the current state of the nation, particularly in relation to insecurity and emerging political developments that have far-reaching implications for national stability and democratic integrity.
Nigeria continues to witness an alarming deterioration in its security landscape. Across the North-West and North-Central regions, communities in states such as Zamfara, Kaduna, Katsina, and Niger are subjected almost daily to banditry, mass abductions, and violent raids. Entire villages have been sacked, farmlands abandoned, and thousands displaced. Incidents such as the repeated attacks on rural communities, and the brazen assaults on local government areas in Zamfara State underscore the inability of the current security architecture to provide adequate protection for citizens.
In the North-East, the protracted insurgency continues to exact a heavy toll, with remnants of terrorist groups carrying out sporadic attacks on both military formations and civilian populations. In the North-Central, inter-communal clashes and militia activities have led to devastating loss of lives and property, particularly in Plateau and Benue States. Even the Federal Capital Territory has not been spared, as incidents of kidnapping and violent crimes in and around Abuja have heightened fear among residents and exposed serious vulnerabilities.
These are not isolated occurrences but part of a disturbing pattern that reflects systemic failure. The Council is deeply concerned that despite repeated assurances, the situation appears to be worsening, with criminal elements operating with increasing audacity and coordination. The continued loss of innocent lives and the displacement of communities are unacceptable and demand urgent, decisive, and transparent action from the authorities.
In the political and electoral space, the Council recalls its earlier position regarding the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The SCSN had previously called for the removal of the INEC Chairman due to perceived actions and utterances that suggested bias, partiality, and a lack of the neutrality required of such a sensitive office. The integrity of the electoral body is central to the survival of democracy, and any erosion of public confidence in its leadership poses a serious threat to national cohesion and stability. The Council maintains that electoral umpiring must not only be fair but must be seen to be fair by all stakeholders.
Furthermore, the Council expresses strong concern over the recently scheduled PVC revalidation exercise. While voter registration and validation are essential components of the democratic process, the timing, manner, and apparent urgency of this exercise raise serious questions. Conducting such a critical exercise at what appears to be the eleventh hour, so close to electoral timelines, creates the risk of disenfranchisement for millions of eligible voters, particularly in regions already grappling with insecurity and logistical challenges.
The Council unequivocally condemns and rejects the current approach to the PVC revalidation exercise. It views the timing as not only inappropriate but potentially indicative of a broader, sinister design that could undermine the credibility of forthcoming elections. Electoral processes must be transparent, inclusive, and designed to maximize participation, not restrict it. Any action that has the effect, or even the perception, of selectively disenfranchising segments of the population is unacceptable and must be revisited.
The SCSN therefore calls on the relevant authorities to immediately review this exercise, engage in broad-based consultation with stakeholders, and ensure that no Nigerian is denied the right to vote due to administrative or procedural constraints. Democracy thrives on participation, and any attempt to curtail this fundamental right must be firmly resisted.
In conclusion, the Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria reiterates that Nigeria’s challenges, though daunting, are not insurmountable. However, they require sincerity of purpose, justice-driven leadership, and policies that prioritize the welfare, security, and rights of all citizens. The Council remains committed to constructive engagement and will continue to advocate for a Nigeria where peace, justice, and prosperity prevail.
May Allah grant our nation peace, guide our leaders, and protect our people.
Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN)