Insecurity: Hijrah Organisation Urges Improved Intelligence Gathering, Stronger Community Participation.

By Balogun Arisekola Azeez, Ilorin, Kwara State.

The Hijrah Islamic Organisation of Nigeria(HIO) recommended improved intelligence gathering and stronger community participation in security matters as necessary measures needed to curtail the security challenges confronting Nigeria.

The vice chairman of the religious organisation, Alh Ibrahim Bio Koto gave the recommendation in his speech at an event organised to mark the commencement of the new Islamic calendar( Hijrah) in Ilorin, Kwara State.

Koto noted that insecurity remains one of the greatest challenges facing the country.

“Rising cases of kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, and communal clashes continue to threaten lives and livelihoods.

Islam places a high premium on the sanctity of human life,” he said.

While acknowledging the efforts of security agencies and government at all level at ending insecurity across the country, Koto called for better welfare packages for security personnel to motivate them.

He also recommended youth empowerment programmes to get the youths positively engaged.

Koto added that the economic challenges, including rising food prices, inflation, unemployment and declining purchasing power, confronting Nigerians required urgent attention.

He, therefore, called on the government to implement people – centred policies to cushion the economic hardship being experienced by Nigerians .

On the 2027 general elections, Koto reminded the politicians that leadership is a trust, adding that:” We urge political leaders and aspiring office holders to fear Allah in their dealings, be truthful in their promises, avoid unrealistic campaign pledges, prioritise public interest over personal gain, and promote transparency, accountability and integrity.”