The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on governments across the South-West to strengthen local security structures, including the Amotekun Corps, the Oduduwa Peoples Congress (OPC), and Iru Ekun vigilante groups, to stem the growing threat of banditry in the region.
In a statement issued on Friday by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, the Islamic human rights organisation expressed concern over the recent attack on Esiele community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where bandits reportedly killed a teacher and abducted seven teachers alongside 39 pupils.
MURIC described as particularly disturbing reports that one of the kidnapped teachers was beheaded while in captivity, describing the perpetrators as “maniacs unfit for human society.”
The group urged South-West governments to position vigilante groups as first responders to security threats, while also recruiting more personnel into the Amotekun Corps to enhance its operational effectiveness.
According to Akintola, communities across Yorubaland must remain vigilant and organised to prevent criminal elements from gaining a foothold in the region. He warned that the South-West should learn from the security challenges experienced in parts of Northern Nigeria and avoid complacency.
MURIC further advocated the proper equipping and arming of local security outfits and encouraged more youths to join community-based security initiatives, stressing that adequate manpower is critical to safeguarding communities.
The organisation also called for unity among residents irrespective of religious or political affiliations, emphasizing that collective action is necessary to confront insecurity.
While addressing Muslims, MURIC cited Qur’anic verses encouraging resilience and courage in the face of threats, and urged Christians to adopt a similar resolve against criminal elements.
The group maintained that preparedness, vigilance, and a coordinated security response remain essential to preserving peace and stability across the South-West.
MURIC concluded by urging residents and governments to remain alert at all times, insisting that “eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.”
