Nigeria @ 65: Muslim Group Raises Alarm Over Insecurity in Northern Nigeria

As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has called on national leaders and citizens alike to confront the country’s worsening security and governance crises with a renewed sense of responsibility, conscience, and courage.

In a statement titled “Nigeria at 65: A Call to Conscience and Courage,” MPAC expressed deep concern over ongoing violence and insecurity across several parts of the country, particularly in states like Zamfara, Kaduna, Niger, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Plateau, Borno, and most recently, Kwara.

“Independence is not merely a flag raised or an anthem sung,” the statement read. “It is the living responsibility to unite our people, protect the sanctity of life, and build a nation where justice and dignity are not privileges but rights for all.”

Quoting the Qur’an (4:135), the group underscored the moral imperative to uphold justice and speak the truth, warning that a nation that abandons justice risks losing its soul. MPAC emphasized that genuine independence must now be defined by freedom from violence, hunger, and impunity.

“This is not a time for platitudes. Leaders at all levels must rise above excuses and act with the urgency that life demands. Justice must not be delayed. Security must not be politicized. Mercy must not be selective,” the organization stated.

The message, signed by MPAC Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor, urged Nigerians to resist despair and remain committed to unity, compassion, and collective responsibility. It also issued a stark reminder to those in power: “Power is a trust, and before God, every drop of innocent blood will demand an answer.”

Concluding its Independence Day message, MPAC prayed for national healing, peace, and divine guidance, and called on all Nigerians to recommit to the core values of justice, equity, and mutual respect envisioned by the country’s founding fathers.