The Northern wing of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has extended greetings to Christians across Northern Nigeria on the conclusion of the Lenten season, while also calling for sincerity and accountability among Christian leadership in the region.
In a statement issued on Thursday, April 2, 2026, the Kano State Chairman of MURIC and Coordinator of its Northern Wing, Malam Hassan Sani Indabawa, acknowledged the significance of Good Friday and the end of Lent, urging peaceful coexistence among adherents of both faiths.
However, the group expressed reservations over recent remarks by the Chairman of the Forum of Northern Christians (FNC), Rev. Joseph John Hayab, who had earlier called for mutual respect, understanding, and love between Muslims and Christians following the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
MURIC described the remarks as “hypocritical” and questioned the sincerity of such calls, alleging contradictions in the actions of some Christian leaders. The group accused certain northern Christian figures of engaging in activities it described as “incendiary campaigns” against Nigeria, including alleged petitions to foreign entities over claims of religious persecution.
The statement also referenced past interactions involving international stakeholders, expressing concern over what it termed a lack of transparency and consistency in interfaith engagements.
While acknowledging that ordinary Muslims and Christians in many northern communities coexist peacefully, MURIC emphasized the need for religious leaders to demonstrate integrity and align their actions with their public messages.
The group further called on the Forum of Northern Christians to strengthen internal cohesion, promote national unity, and avoid actions that could undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty or interfaith harmony.
Reiterating the importance of peaceful coexistence, MURIC urged both Muslim and Christian communities to work collectively towards sustaining mutual respect, dialogue, and national development.
