Nigeria @66: CSOs urge governors to sign execution warrant against kidnappers

A coalition of over 20 civil society organisations has urged governors across the 36 states to sign execution warrants for condemned kidnappers and other criminals, arguing that prolonged delays in enforcing capital sentences could undermine efforts to deter violent crime.

The National President of the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria, Isah Abubakar, made the call on Thursday at a press conference in Kaduna to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary. Blueprint reports

Abubakar commended the recent death sentence handed to convicted kidnappers in Edo state, urging governors to demonstrate the political will to enforce judicial decisions.

He argued that keeping condemned prisoners in custody indefinitely also places an additional financial burden on taxpayers.

Why October 1 protest was suspended

The coalition also explained the suspension of its planned October 1 peaceful protest, saying security assessments raised concerns that political actors could hijack the demonstration and trigger violence.

Abubakar said the decision followed consultations with relevant stakeholders and an assessment of Kaduna’s history of communal and political crises.

“We will not prioritise personal interest over public interest,” he said, stressing that suspending the protest did not mean the coalition had abandoned its responsibility to hold government accountable.

He said the coalition remained committed to engaging government on issues affecting citizens but considered the safety of participants and the wider public paramount.

Abuja-Kaduna highway security improves

On insecurity, Abubakar acknowledged that kidnapping had not been completely eradicated but said security along the Abuja-Kaduna highway had improved compared with previous years.

He attributed the improvement to the efforts of security agencies and urged them to sustain the fight against kidnapping and other forms of criminality.

Abubakar also appealed to citizens to provide credible intelligence to security agencies, stressing that community cooperation remained essential to protecting lives and property.

He said effective information-sharing between communities and security agencies could help authorities prevent attacks and apprehend criminals.

Coalition restates commitment to accountability

The coalition’s position was endorsed by Abubakar; Hussaini Shuaibu, President of Arewa Youths Alliances for Progress and Development; Kamilu Muhammed Tambuwal, Deputy President of Youth Movement for Peace; Soroye Olufemi Idowu, President of Unified Nigerian Youths for Flourishment; Kazah Bulus Garba, President of Foundation for Citizen Upliftment and National Growth; and Aminu Haruna, Convener of the coalition.

The organisations said they would continue to advocate accountability and improved security while pursuing peaceful engagement with relevant authorities.