When Evil Wears a Familiar Face

 

The persistent wave of kidnappings, killings, and acts of terror across parts of Nigeria remains one of the most painful realities confronting our nation today. Few incidents are more heartbreaking than the abduction of schoolchildren, the murder of teachers, and the torment inflicted upon innocent citizens whose only desire is to live peacefully and pursue education. These victims have committed no offence. Yet they find themselves at the mercy of criminal groups that have transformed human suffering into a profitable enterprise.

What makes this tragedy even more troubling is that many of those responsible often cloak themselves in religious language and symbolism. They invoke sacred expressions, bear Muslim names, and present themselves as adherents of Islam. Consequently, ordinary Muslims who reject violence and uphold the sanctity of human life are left with the burden of constantly distinguishing their faith from the actions of those who have betrayed its principles.

We were taught that Islam does not sanction the killing of innocents, the oppression of the weak, or the terrorising of communities. But the deliberate targeting of students, teachers, and other non-combatants stands in direct contradiction to the moral teachings of the religion. It is therefore both unjust and inaccurate to judge millions of peaceful Muslims by the actions of criminals who exploit religion for their own ends. Yet it must also be acknowledged that the continued association of these atrocities with Islamic symbols makes that distinction increasingly difficult for many observers.

The challenge before Nigeria is immense. Citizens themselves are victims of these crimes and cannot reasonably be blamed for the insecurity that threatens their communities. Rather, the responsibility lies with those entrusted with protecting lives and property. There is a need for stronger efforts to dismantle criminal networks, curb the flow of illegal weapons, and ensure that perpetrators are brought before the law. Equally important is the rescue and rehabilitation of victims whose lives have been shattered by these acts.

At the same time, religious leaders, traditional authorities, community elders, and political elites must speak and act, with one voice and actions, in condemning evil wherever it appears. Silence, indifference, or selective outrage only emboldens those who thrive on violence. If criminality is tolerated among the young today, it may one day threaten the very leaders who failed to confront it.

Nigeria deserves better. Our children deserve classrooms free from fear, our teachers deserve safety and respect, and our communities deserve peace. Evil must be called by its name, condemned without reservation, and resisted by all people of conscience, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or social standing.

®Ahmed Salim Jn ✍️ 

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