An Islamic Scholar, Sheik AbdulAzeez Shitu, on Saturday said the adoption of the death penalty by the National Assembly would be helpful in fighting terrorism and kidnapping in Nigeria.

Shittu told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Omu-Aran, Kwara, that the adoption was a bold step and commitment by the assembly in curtailing the menace of terrorism and kidnapping.

Shittu who is also the chief missioner of the Islamic Development Association (IDYON), observed that terrorism and kidnapping had done much to damage the image of the country.

''It is not enough for the two arms of the National Assembly to adopt the bill on death penalty for the act of terrorism, kidnapping and other related offences.

''The other hurdles which needed to be crossed is for the government to have a strong political will in giving accent to the bill and promptly too.

''Another major hurdle is for the judiciary to be alive to its responsibilities in exercising its wide powers in adjudication to achieve the desired results.

The Islamic cleric said the death penalty became relevant and necessary going by the critical circumstances the country had found itself in global terrorism.

He said that past experience had shown that successful military administrations in some states were forced to resort to execution of armed robbers before robbery was drastically reduced.

''You cannot approach a critical issue such as terrorism with a lighter hand, especially when those involved are faceless and without specific target for dialogue.

''Although dialogue remains the best alternative to resolving any dispute, you can only achieve result when the aggrieved party is identifiable to ensure dialogue.

He urged the House of Assembly in each state to emulate the National Assembly in enacting laws that would assist law enforcement agencies in their assignment.