MURIC Denies Allegations of Inviting Bandits to South-West, Calls for Yoruba Unity Against Insecurity

Abuja, Nigeria – 1 June 2026— The Muslim Rights Concern, MURIC, has dismissed allegations that it or other Yoruba Muslim groups are encouraging bandits and terrorists to infiltrate South-West Nigeria. The organization described the claims as false, malicious, and driven by religious intolerance.

In a statement issued on Sunday, MURIC Executive Director Professor Ishaq Akintola alleged that some individuals were running a campaign to portray Yoruba Muslims and Muslim organizations as supporters of terrorism.

Akintola said MURIC had become a target because of its advocacy for the rights of Muslims in the South-West. He insisted the group has consistently condemned terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violent extremism.

According to him, it would be illogical for Yoruba Muslim groups to support criminal elements that attack both Muslims and Christians.

“MURIC has always opposed violence and terrorism. Our motto remains ‘Dialogue, Not Violence,’ and we have repeatedly condemned Boko Haram, banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on places of worship,” he said.

The MURIC leader cited several past statements in which the organization condemned terrorist attacks and supported efforts by security agencies to combat insurgency and criminality across the country.

Akintola further alleged that some critics were attempting to tarnish the organization’s image through unfounded accusations and religious profiling.

Despite the controversy, MURIC called on all Yoruba people, regardless of religious affiliation, to unite against the growing threat of insecurity in the region.

The group urged citizens to support security agencies and community-based security initiatives in the fight against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.

“MURIC invites all Yoruba citizens to unite in the struggle against bandits and terrorists. This is not a religious issue but a collective security challenge that affects everyone,” the statement said.

The organization emphasized that lasting peace and security in the South-West would require cooperation among Muslims, Christians, traditional institutions, community leaders, and security agencies.

MURIC also warned against the use of hate speech and religious divisions, arguing that such actions could weaken efforts to address the security challenges confronting the region.

The statement concluded with a renewed appeal for unity among Yoruba communities, stressing that collective action remains essential in confronting criminal groups operating across the South-West.