The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has written an open letter to former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, following his recent defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), seeking assurances on the treatment and welfare of Nigerian Muslims under a possible Obi-led administration.
In a press release dated 2 January 2026, MURIC in the letter authored by its Founder and Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, as part of what the group described as an effort to open a “dialogue window” with Obi ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the Islamic human rights organisation, Obi’s defection to the ADC has heightened political activities earlier than expected, making it necessary for interest groups to seek clarity from aspirants likely to contest the presidency.
MURIC noted that its engagement aligned with its motto of “Dialogue, Not Violence.”
The group acknowledged Obi’s political resilience and stated that its interest in him stems from his previous role as the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election and his renewed ambition to lead the country.
MURIC said it was particularly interested in Obi’s disposition towards Nigerian Muslims, stressed that Muslims constituted a significant portion of the population and deserve proportionate representation, equal rights and full freedom of religion in governance.
Among the issues raised by the group was the demand for equitable inclusion of qualified Muslims in political appointments, as well as parity in the recognition of religious observances.
MURIC specifically cited the non-recognition of the Islamic New Year as a public holiday, contrasting it with the January 1 holiday enjoyed nationwide.
The organisation also called for assurances that the 2027 elections would be free from religious sentiments or rhetoric, warning against framing the contest as a “religious war.” It emphasized that electoral success requires broad national support across faiths.
MURIC disclosed that some Nigerian Muslims still harbour reservations about Obi and therefore demanded a public statement clarifying his relationship with Muslims and how their rights would be protected if he becomes president.
While stating that it is not opposed to Nigeria having a Christian president, the group maintained that it would only support candidates who uphold merit, competence, justice, fairness and respect for the fundamental rights of Muslims.
The organisation concluded by urging the media to convey its concerns to Obi and the Nigerian public, expressed hope that open dialogue would strengthen national cohesion ahead of the 2027 polls.
