The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called for calm following a reported threat by United States President Donald Trump to launch military action against Nigeria over alleged killings of Christians in the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday, November 2, 2025, by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, the Islamic human rights organization said the threat should not cause panic among Nigerians, urged citizens to allow the Federal Government to handle the matter through diplomatic means.
Professor Akintola noted that while any US strikes directed at terrorist groups such as Boko Haram, ISIS, and ISWAP would be “understandable,” any attack targeting innocent Muslims or mosques would be regarded as “aggression and a resumption of the Christian crusade.”
“Taken contextually, Trump’s threat should be seen as directed at terrorist groups. Terrorists are not part of us. Their methods stand in contradistinction to the tenets of Islam. We condemn terrorism and we will not associate with those who kill and maim,” Akintola said.
He added that the Nigerian government has been actively combating terrorists and bandits, stressed that support from the US in neutralizing such groups would be welcomed.
“US strikes will make sense if they are directed at terrorist groups like Boko Haram, ISIS, and ISWAP who have been killing both Muslims and Christians. Bandits who have been kidnapping both Muslims and Christians should also be on Trump’s hit list. Trump and the US will be hailed if this is the objective,” the statement read.
However, Akintola warned that any attacks on innocent civilians or religious leaders would be unacceptable and counterproductive.
“Such strikes will be considered aggression and a resumption of the Christian crusade of the 19th century if innocent Muslims and mosques are targeted,” he cautioned.
The MURIC Director appealed to Muslim youths across the country to avoid protests or any militant response, emphasizing the group’s commitment to its motto, “Dialogue, Not Violence.”
“We urge law-abiding Muslims and other Nigerians to eschew thoughts of anti-Trump or anti-American actions over this threat. Nigerians should go about their lawful duties without entertaining any fear,” Akintola advised.
He also called on the Federal Government to adopt “persuasion and robust diplomacy” in responding to the US threat, rather than counter-threats.
The group further urged Muslims to continue promoting forgiveness, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence with Christians and foreigners in their communities.
“We have no hard feelings towards American citizens because we are aware that there is a huge difference between American citizens and their government. The average American is warm, humane, and hospitable,” the statement concluded.
