The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian military to urgently intervene in the worsening security situation in Borno and Plateau States, following recent alarms raised by state governors.
In a statement issued on Monday, 14th April 2025, MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, urged a strategic review of military operations to curb the resurgence of Boko Haram in Borno and halt the expanding grip of bandits in the North Central region, particularly Plateau State.
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno had earlier revealed on Tuesday, 8th April 2025, that Boko Haram insurgents had taken over two local government areas in the state. The warning was followed by a deadly attack on Saturday, 12th April, when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated on the Damboa-Maiduguri road, killing eight and injuring 21 during a military-escorted civilian convoy.
In a similar development, Governor Caleb Muftwang of Plateau disclosed that no fewer than 64 communities in his state have fallen under the control of armed bandits.
MURIC expressed deep concern over these developments and reminded the Federal Government of its constitutional obligation to protect lives and property, quoting Article 14 Section 2(b) of the 1999 Constitution: “The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.”
“As the Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, we urge President Tinubu to lead by example. His presence in military fatigue in Damboa would send a strong signal to both the troops and the terrorists,” Akintola stated.
The organization also charged the military to intensify its operations in Borno and Plateau to restore peace and confidence among affected communities.
“Our people deserve to sleep with both eyes closed,” MURIC concluded.
