The Musawa Local Government Area of Katsina State has enlisted 75 Islamic scholars to offer prayers for divine intervention in tackling terrorism and related security threats in the region.
The Executive Chairman of the local government, Dr. Habib Abdulkadir, revealed this in an interview with journalists.
Musawa, like several other council areas in Katsina, has been grappling with banditry, terrorism, kidnappings, and cattle rustling.
Over the years, these activities have claimed hundreds of lives and led to the abduction of thousands for ransom.
Other affected councils include Matazu, Jibia, Safana, Batsari, Batagrawa, Faskari, Kankara, Malumfashi, Funtua, and Bakori, among others.
Although security operations have reduced attacks in some areas, communities close to forest reserves remain vulnerable to weekly assaults.
According to Abdulkadir, the Islamic scholars were drawn from various religious sects and are expected to continue supplications for lasting peace in the council and the state at large.
He disclosed that the government spends over N4 million monthly to fund the prayers and as an allowance for the scholars.
“With the prayers, peace is gradually returning to some of the communities affected by insecurity in the area. Many people can now sleep with their eyes closed,” Abdulkadir stated.
The chairman further commended both the Federal and State Governments for their ongoing efforts in combating terrorism, assuring that the local government would remain committed to ensuring peace and security in the region.
