Islamic cleric demands execution of convicted bandits, kidnappers

Ondo State-based Islamic cleric and founder of At-Tanzil Foundation, Sheikh AbdulRauf Lagbaji. Photo: Peter Dada

An Ondo State-based Islamic cleric and founder of At-Tanzil Foundation, Sheikh AbdulRauf Lagbaji, has called on governments at all levels to enforce the death penalty against persons convicted of banditry and kidnapping, saying the growing insecurity across the country requires decisive action.

Lagbaji also urged the government to discontinue the reintegration of repentant bandits into society, arguing that such a policy encourages criminality rather than deterring it.

The cleric made the call while delivering a lecture at the Ashura Day celebration organised by the Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, Ondo State chapter, in Akure on Thursday.

A copy of the lecture, titled “Ashura: Navigating Peaceful Pathways Amidst Hostilities: What Are the Practical Relevance in Contemporary Nigeria?” was made available to journalists on Sunday.