A prominent Ondo State-based Islamic cleric and founder of At-Tanzil Foundation, Sheikh AbdulRauf Ajiboye Lagbaji, has called on governments at all levels to enforce the death penalty against convicted bandits and kidnappers, insisting that those found guilty of such crimes should not be allowed to return to society.

Lagbaji made the call while delivering a lecture at the Ashura Day celebration organised by the Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria (MMPN), Ondo State chapter, in Akure. The lecture was themed, "Ashura: Navigating Peaceful Pathways Amidst Hostilities: What Are the Practical Relevance in Contemporary Nigeria?"

The Islamic scholar specifically appealed to Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to ensure the execution of those convicted over the 2022 Owo church massacre, arguing that justice must be served to deter future crimes.

According to him, Islam prescribes capital punishment for anyone who intentionally takes another person's life, adding that showing leniency to convicted killers only exposes society to greater danger.

"It is time for our government to execute any bandit or kidnapper found guilty because the Qur'an makes it clear that whoever knowingly kills another person should also be put to death," he said.

He added that the government should enforce the death penalty on those involved in the Owo church attack, stressing that Islamic teachings do not support the rehabilitation or pampering of murderers.

Lagbaji also urged legal practitioners not to defend individuals accused of banditry and kidnapping, while calling for a constitutional review to allow the immediate execution of persons convicted of such offences.

Beyond security concerns, the cleric appealed to Nigerians to embrace peace, reminding Muslims that the essence of Ashura is to remain devoted to Allah, uphold good intentions and promote harmony in society.

Also speaking at the event, the Grand Imam of Akure Kingdom, Alhaji AbdulHakeem Yayi-Akorede, urged Muslims to become more actively involved in politics to secure greater recognition, appointments and representation in governance.

He said increased political participation would enable Muslims to contribute meaningfully to leadership and decision-making, while commending the MMPN for organising the programme.

Yayi-Akorede described Ashura as a period of fasting, prayers and spiritual reflection rather than celebration, urging Muslims to observe the day with devotion and pray for Nigeria's peace and progress.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, Prince Leke Adegbite, also expressed concern over what he described as the marginalisation of Muslims in political appointments in the state, calling on political leaders to ensure fair representation.

In his remarks, MMPN Ondo State Chairman, Mallam Jubril Bada, said the annual programme was organised to encourage Muslims to increase acts of worship, charity, fasting and prayers. He also urged Nigerians to promote peace, tolerance and unity, especially ahead of future elections.

The event attracted Islamic scholars, clerics, media practitioners, government officials and members of the Muslim community, who reflected on the significance of Ashura and discussed issues affecting national development and peaceful coexistence.