MURIC Commends Police, DSS Over Ikorodu Religious Tension

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has praised security agencies for averting a potential religious crisis in Ikorodu, Lagos State, following tensions between Muslim residents and traditional Oro worshippers.

In a statement issued on Monday, the group’s Executive Director, Ishaq Akintola, specifically lauded the Divisional Police Officer of Ebute Ipakodo Police Division and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) for their swift intervention.

The commendation followed an incident last week in which Oro worshippers in Ikorodu West reportedly imposed a curfew restricting movement from 10 p.m. on Thursday, March 26, to 12 noon on Friday, March 27. The restriction, according to MURIC, disrupted normal activities, particularly affecting Muslims observing Friday congregational prayers.

Akintola described the action as “illegal, illegitimate and unconstitutional,” arguing that no group has the authority to impose movement restrictions without the approval of the state government. He maintained that such actions contravene provisions of the Nigerian Constitution guaranteeing freedom of movement and worship.

He further stressed that only a state government, acting on security advice, could lawfully impose a curfew, warning that unilateral actions by any group could trigger a breakdown of law and order.

MURIC also criticised what it described as a pattern of “extremist” conduct by Oro adherents in Ikorodu, contrasting it with what it termed more moderate practices in other parts of Lagos State. The group urged traditional worshippers to exercise restraint and respect the rights of others while practicing their religion.

While affirming the constitutional right of traditionalists to worship, Akintola emphasised that such rights must not infringe on those of other citizens.

The group called on security agencies to remain vigilant, noting alleged threats by Oro worshippers to continue with similar activities. It also appealed to Muslims in Ikorodu and across Lagos State to remain law-abiding and avoid taking matters into their own hands.

MURIC warned that with the country approaching a sensitive election period, any form of unrest could be exploited by elements seeking to destabilise the peace, urging all parties to prioritise dialogue and coexistence.

MURIC Commends Police, DSS Over Ikorodu Religious Tension

Blessing CEO Opens Up on Alleged Domestic Abuse, Explains Reason for Divorce

Nigerian relationship coach and social media personality, Blessing Okoro, has revealed that domestic violence was a major factor behind the collapse of her marriage.

Speaking during an interview on With Chude, Blessing recounted a series of alleged abusive incidents involving her former husband, including claims that she was assaulted shortly before and on the day of their wedding.

According to her, the alleged abuse was not hidden, as it reportedly occurred in the presence of close friends and members of her bridal party. She stated that her chief bridesmaid and others who witnessed the incidents are still available to corroborate her account.

Blessing further alleged that one of the incidents occurred over a domestic disagreement, noting that she was beaten for not carrying out a household task.

Reflecting on the experience, she expressed regret over proceeding with the marriage despite what she described as clear warning signs, adding that her decision at the time has remained a difficult chapter in her life.

The relationship coach’s revelation has since sparked conversations on social media about domestic violence, particularly within intimate relationships, and the importance of recognizing and addressing early signs of abuse.

Blessing CEO Opens Up on Alleged Domestic Abuse, Explains Reason for Divorce

Plateau Residents Protest, Demand Removal of Herdsmen Ahead of Farming Season

Residents of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State on Monday staged a protest in Obagaji, the council headquarters, calling for the removal of Fulani herdsmen from their communities as the farming season approaches.

The demonstrators, who marched to the local government secretariat, carried placards and chanted slogans, including “Fulani must go,” to register their grievances over what they described as persistent insecurity in the area.

According to the protesters, the onset of the rainy season necessitates the commencement of planting activities. They expressed fears that the continued presence of herders and their cattle could result in the destruction of crops and trigger renewed clashes.

An eyewitness who spoke during the protest attributed the demonstration to ongoing security challenges linked to herdsmen activities.

“The protest is currently ongoing in Obagaji due to the persistent herdsmen crisis. They keep attacking and killing our people with sophisticated weapons. We can no longer access our farms or carry out farming activities,” the resident said.

He added that the community remains resolute despite the challenges. “We will continue to stand strong because this is our land,” he said.

The protesters maintained that herders must vacate farmlands to ensure a peaceful and productive farming season.

Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Melvin Ejeh, confirmed that he had engaged with the protesting youths and community elders.

“I have spoken with the protesters and also met with the elders. Measures will be taken to address the situation,” he said.

Ejeh, however, declined to disclose specific security strategies, noting that such matters are sensitive.

“Security issues and actions are not things to be discussed in the public,” he added.

He reassured residents of ongoing efforts to maintain peace, stating that incidents of herders’ attacks in the area had reduced and that authorities would continue to work towards preventing any escalation of violence.

Plateau Residents Protest, Demand Removal of Herdsmen Ahead of Farming Season