The Founder of Markaz-ul-Uloom School of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Sheikh (Dr.) Tunde Abbas Abdul-Azeez has urged President Bola Tinubu to make national security his foremost priority, warning that Nigeria's security challenges are being driven by elements operating within the system.
He made the call during the 40th anniversary of the institution, themed "Markaz-ul-Uloom: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow," held recently in Lagos.
Sheikh Abdul-Azeez said insecurity persists because the sponsors and handlers of terrorist groups have infiltrated government structures.
He appealed to both President Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intensify efforts toward securing the country, praying for peace and stability.
Responding to recent statements by foreign leaders suggesting religious persecution in Nigeria, he stressed that victims of violence cut across all faiths.
"There is no genocide in Nigeria. The terrorists are killing Christians, Muslims, and non-Muslims alike," he said, urging religious leaders and citizens to reject divisive narratives and uphold tolerance.
He encouraged Nigerians to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, adding, "Let us be our own security."
He urged religious leaders and citizens not to allow divisive narratives to tear the nation apart, emphasising Islam's teachings on tolerance.
"These people are not Muslims because the Qur'an forbids the killing of innocent souls," he added.
The scholar encouraged Nigerians to take personal responsibility for their environment by reporting suspicious activities and supporting security agencies.
"Let us be our own security. If you observe a strange move, report to security agents. We have to help our police and the military with information," he said.
He noted that Lagos remains relatively peaceful, which he credited for enabling the institution to hold its anniversary celebration without incident.
Speaking on Markaz-ul-Uloom's progress over the past four decades, Sheikh Abdul-Azeez highlighted the school's impact on moral and academic development.
"Our major achievements in this institution are turning out pious, morally and academically sound graduates. This is our modest and humble achievement," he said.