A prominent Islamic scholar and community leader, Dr. Sanusi Lafiagi, has called on youths in Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas of Kwara State to remain united and avoid being used as political tools amid the worsening insecurity in the region.
In a heartfelt message to the communities, Dr. Lafiagi lamented that residents are currently experiencing some of the darkest days of their lives as armed attacks continue to devastate villages, displace families, and cripple economic activities such as farming and trading, which are the main sources of livelihood for the people.
He noted that several government institutions have been forced to relocate from the affected areas to avoid casualties, while many residents are still in captivity. “We are neither safe in our homes nor in our farms. Some villages have been deserted for fear of attacks,” he stated.
Lafiagi, however, urged youths not to succumb to political manipulation, warning that both ruling and opposition politicians could exploit the security crisis for personal or political gain. “We must never allow ourselves to be employed and deployed as political tools. Politicians are desperate for power and relevance and can sacrifice anything to achieve both,” he cautioned.
He emphasized that the security challenge should not be politicized, stressing that the government of the day remains the legitimate authority responsible for protecting lives and property. He encouraged constructive engagement with the government rather than confrontation, saying, “Our issue is that of governance, not politics.”
Dr. Lafiagi also warned against spreading misinformation or divisive content on social media that could undermine the efforts of the security agencies. “If all the security forces withdraw from our communities for 24 hours, would any of us be safer? We must not play into the hands of the criminals by sharing malicious messages,” he said.
Appealing for respect toward elders and traditional leaders, he advised that all engagements should reflect the moral and cultural values of the people. He urged restraint on social media and reminded the youth that community harmony must not be sacrificed even in difficult times.
Concluding his message, Lafiagi called for continued prayers for peace and divine intervention, urging residents to stay steadfast in faith and morality. “The promise of Allah is true, only if we are true to Him in our devotion and obedience,” he added.
