By Peter Omopo
The Muslim Media Watch Group of Nigeria has expressed support for the ongoing trial of 500 suspected terrorists in Abuja, describing the move as a significant step in addressing insecurity across the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the group’s National Coordinator, Ibrahim Abdullahi, and National Secretary, Nasir Balogun, commended Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what they described as a sustained commitment to tackling terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping through lawful and institutional processes.
The group also praised the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, for personally overseeing the prosecution of the suspects, noting that the current proceedings mark the ninth phase of terrorism-related trials in the country.
According to the organisation, the judicial process underscores the Federal Government’s consistency in confronting insecurity and reinforces public confidence in the rule of law.
While acknowledging the progress, the group urged security and intelligence agencies to intensify their operations to prevent further attacks, warning that criminal elements could exploit any lapses to regroup.
It specifically raised concerns over the continued use of forest reserves and national parks as hideouts by armed groups, highlighting Kainji National Park as an area requiring urgent security intervention.
The group called on the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, to take decisive action in clearing such locations and strengthening security presence in vulnerable rural communities.
In addition, it urged governors in Northern Nigeria to adopt broader strategies that address the root causes of insecurity, including youth unemployment and lack of access to education. The group stressed that financial or military responses alone would not be sufficient to resolve the crisis.
It also encouraged state governments to enhance their internal security frameworks, while commending the administrations in Borno and Zamfara states for investing in logistics and equipment to combat crime.
The organisation further cautioned against reliance on political rhetoric without concrete action, noting that social issues such as street begging and youth neglect must be tackled to achieve lasting peace and stability.
