Reported by: L.Imafidon
LAGOS, Nigeria — July 4, 2026 — The Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Sheikh Ridwan Jamiu, has called on the Federal Government to implement the death penalty against individuals convicted of kidnapping and banditry, arguing that tougher punishment is necessary to address Nigeria's worsening insecurity.
The cleric made the remarks on Friday, July 3, 2026, during the Jummah (Friday) prayer sermon at the Lekki Central Mosque in Lagos, where he addressed the growing wave of kidnappings, bandit attacks and violent crimes affecting many parts of the country.
Sheikh Jamiu expressed concern over the increasing number of Nigerians being abducted for ransom and the devastating impact of violent criminal activities on families and communities. He said stronger enforcement of existing laws would serve as a deterrent to those involved in kidnapping, banditry and other violent offences.
According to the Islamic scholar, individuals who have been duly tried and convicted by courts of competent jurisdiction for kidnapping and related violent crimes should face the full weight of the law. He argued that decisive action by the government would help restore public confidence in the country's justice system and improve national security.
The cleric also urged security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and strengthen collaboration in combating criminal networks responsible for kidnappings and armed attacks across the country. He called on citizens to support law enforcement agencies by providing credible information that could help prevent crimes and facilitate the arrest of offenders.
Kidnapping for ransom has become one of Nigeria's most pressing security challenges, particularly in parts of the North-West, North-Central and South-East, prompting repeated calls from religious leaders, civil society groups and public officials for stronger measures to tackle the menace.
While Nigeria's laws prescribe severe penalties for certain violent offences, including kidnapping in some states, the implementation of capital punishment remains subject to legal processes, appeals and executive approval where applicable.
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