MURIC Calls Proposed US Sanctions on Nigerian Muslims ‘Lopsided’

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has criticised a proposed US bill targeting Nigerian Muslim figures and groups, describing the move as selective, unjust, and biased.

In a statement issued on Thursday, 12 February 2026, and signed by its Founder and Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, MURIC reacted to reports that five US lawmakers had proposed sanctions — including visa bans and asset freezes — against former Kano State Governor and NNPP national leader Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as well as Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, among others.

MURIC argued that the proposed sanctions unfairly target Muslim individuals and organisations, while other actors involved in religious and communal conflicts in Nigeria appear to be ignored.

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Akintola stated that if sanctions are intended to promote justice, they must be comprehensive and impartial, noting that government officials in Southern Nigeria and leaders of Christian militia groups in North Central Nigeria should also be investigated where evidence warrants.

“We take the decision of the US Congress to sanction Muslims alone with a pinch of salt. It amounts to scapegoating and preconceived judgement,” Akintola said.

The organisation acknowledged the existence of religious extremism and violations of religious freedom in Nigeria, but stressed that these issues affect both Muslim and Christian communities. MURIC also claimed it has records of discrimination and marginalisation against Muslims, which it is prepared to present to international bodies.

MURIC accused US officials of giving more audience to Christian leaders from Nigeria while limiting engagement with Muslim representatives, invoking the legal principle of audi alteram partem — hear the other side — to call for balanced diplomatic consultations.

The group further rejected what it described as the “false designation” of Nigeria as a country perpetrating genocide against Christians, urging a broader investigation before such claims are made.

While affirming that Nigerian Muslims hold no hostility toward the United States, MURIC cautioned that biased international actions could heighten religious tensions, calling for fairness, equity, and transparency in addressing Nigeria’s security and religious challenges.

As of the time of filing this report, US authorities have not responded to MURIC’s statements.

MURIC Calls Proposed US Sanctions on Nigerian Muslims ‘Lopsided’

Supreme Court Affirms Muslim Students’ Right to Worship at Rivers State University

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has ruled in favor of Muslim students at Rivers State University (RSU), affirming their constitutional right to practice Islam and perform religious activities on campus. The landmark judgment, delivered on February 10, 2026, closes a legal battle that has lasted for over a decade.

The ruling reinforces Section 38 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion for all Nigerians.

The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Rivers State Area Unit, hailed the judgment as a historic affirmation of constitutional rights and the rule of law.

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The case traces back to 2012, when a mosque on the university campus was demolished, leaving Muslim students without a dedicated place of worship. The matter passed through the Federal High Court in 2013 and the Court of Appeal in 2017, before finally reaching the Supreme Court.

In a statement, the MSSN emphasized that the ruling is not a victory for one religion over another but a triumph for constitutionalism, equity, and justice. The society commended Muslim students for their discipline, resilience, and peaceful conduct throughout the legal process and acknowledged the efforts of its legal team and community leaders.

The MSSN called on Rivers State University management and relevant authorities to implement the ruling promptly by providing a dedicated and befitting place of worship for Muslim students on campus. The organization also urged students to respond with gratitude and maturity, emphasizing peaceful coexistence and mutual respect within the university community.

Experts believe this decision will have far-reaching implications for religious accommodation and inclusivity in public tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

Supreme Court Affirms Muslim Students’ Right to Worship at Rivers State University

Niger: Police Officer Killed, NSCDC Vehicle Burned in Clash with Suspected Illegal Miners

A police officer was allegedly killed and a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) patrol vehicle set ablaze following a violent confrontation with suspected illegal miners in Zunzungi, Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The attack has raised concerns over growing security risks in mining communities across the state.

The incident occurred at approximately 1:45 p.m., when a joint team of NSCDC personnel and Police Mobile Force (PMF) officers encountered a group of miners engaged in unauthorized extraction of minerals, including monazite, locally referred to as “zeiko.” The security team reportedly seized mined minerals, prompting the miners to launch an aggressive attack.

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During the clash, PC Emmanuel Samson, a police officer attached to MOPOL 12, Police Mobile Force Minna, was allegedly beaten to death by the assailants. The attackers also burned a Hilux patrol vehicle used by the NSCDC and police team and reportedly stole the officer’s rifle, escalating the violence.

Following the attack, security operatives intensified patrols in the area to apprehend suspects and restore order. Residents of Zunzungi and surrounding communities were advised to remain indoors while investigations and recovery operations continue.

This incident highlights persistent security challenges linked to illegal mining activities in Niger State. Analysts say that clashes between miners and law enforcement personnel have become increasingly frequent in recent years, often resulting from disputes over unregulated mining operations and attempts to protect licensed mining sites.

Authorities have yet to release an official statement detailing arrests or follow-up actions, but both the Niger State Police Command and the NSCDC are expected to launch thorough investigations into the deadly confrontation.

Niger: Police Officer Killed, NSCDC Vehicle Burned in Clash with Suspected Illegal Miners