‘Islam Has No Link With Abduction Terrorism, Banditry, Kidnapping’

An Islamic group, Federation of Ahlus-Sunnah Organizations in Nigeria (FASON) has declared that Islam has no link with terrorism, banditry, kidnapping or any other criminal activities.

FASON noted that anyone who believes in the teachings and principles of Islam would not engage in any form of criminal activities against either individuals, groups or communities.

FASON National Amir, Sheikh Tajudeen Abdul-Kareem (Baba Lagbeni), who made these revelations while addressing press conference in Ibadan Tuesday evening, noted that the press conference became necessary in view of the recent abduction of 39 students and seven teachers in Oyo State and negative comments made by some individuals and groups against Islam and the Muslims across the country.

He maintained that all the evil acts being committed by bandits or terrorists or any other groups in the country or any part of the world have no link or basis in Islam.

He quoted Qur’an 5:23 for the punishment for terrorism, bandits and other vices.

He added that those who were linking Islam with terrorism and other criminal activities are the enemies of Islam and the Muslims.

He then urged the federal government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed, State Governors and security agencies to immediately curtail insecurity across the country.

Abdul-Kareem, who said that members of the group have been praying for the release of 39 students and seven teachers that were kidnapped in Oriire local government area of Oyo State last month, condemned the abduction of the victims.

He also charged the governments to make laws and policies aimed to improve the living conditions of the people.

“This press conference centers on the current issues in the country, especially the abduction of students and teachers in Oyo State.

“It also centres on our resolve to pray for the successful release of the people who are in captivity. It is over a week now that we have been praying for the successful release of the victims, we will continue to pray till they are released.

“We are also praying for the country to overcome all these challenges. We don’t want war in Nigeria or any other parts of the world.

“The bandits should stop it. It is better for them to stop it because it has no reward here and in heaven. We want the federal government, the state and local governments not to treat security issues with levity hands. Do not use the issue of banditry to cause problems in Oyo State.

“Do not attribute violence, banditry with Islam or the Muslims. We want people to know that Islam has no link with terrorism or kidnapping. People should know that,’’ he said.