MURIC KWARA STATE CHAPTER CONDEMNS CHURCH ATTACK AND RISING INSECURITY IN KWARA
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Kwara State Chapter, is deeply saddened by the shocking attack on Christian worshippers in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State. The incident, which occurred during a live-streamed service, reportedly left several people dead, others abducted, and a sacred place of worship desecrated. This tragic event has shaken the peace-loving people of Kwara State, State of Harmony.
Our concern is heightened by the subsequent decision of the Kwara State Government to shut down schools in five Local Government Areas: Ekiti, Ifelodun, Irepodun, Isin, and Oke-Ero, following fears that criminals may attempt to exploit schoolchildren amidst the unrest. While this measure prioritises the safety of pupils, the disruption of education remains a painful consequence of the deteriorating security situation.
*We strongly condemn the brutal and senseless attack on worshippers in Eruku. An assault on any place of worship is an assault on all of us. It undermines our shared values of religious freedom, respect, and peaceful coexistence. We call on security agencies to pursue the perpetrators without delay and ensure they are brought to justice through lawful means.*
Although safeguarding the lives of students is paramount and the temporary closure is understandable, we are concerned about the long-term impact on children whose academic progress will be disrupted. Education is a lifeline, and prolonged interruptions can have lasting effects on their future. We therefore urge the state government, education authorities, and security agencies to work together in developing a clear, well-communicated plan that provides safe and practical alternatives for learning until schools can fully reopen.
Furthermore, we call for stronger, proactive security measures, not only reactive closures. This includes deeper collaboration with community leaders, enhanced surveillance, and reinforced protection around schools and places of worship, particularly in the identified high-risk LGAs. Regular public updates on the Eruku investigation and on the security status of the affected communities are essential to build trust and reduce fear.
We appeal to all residents of Kwara State to remain calm and cooperate with lawful security directives. At a time like this, unity is our strongest defence. Muslims and Christians must stand together to reject violence and preserve the sanctity of every place of worship, irrespective of religion.
To prove that the killings and attacks going on in Nigeria goes beyond religion and that it is not targeted at Christians,
15 Muslims were killed at Oke-Ode, a quiet town in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State on Sunday, September 28, (https://punchng.com/inside-bandit-bloody-attack-that-emptied-kwara-community/).*
Some of those who died in the incident were identified as the Baale of Ogba Ayo, Abdulwasiu Abdulkareem; his brother, Fatai Abdulkareem; a prince from Agunjin, Ishola Muhammed; and Abdulfatai Elemosho from Babaloma.
Others are Salaudeen Bashir from Babaloma; Saheed from Abayan; Olowo-Ila from Oke-Ode, Oluode Ologomo, Oji and Saheed Matubi (the names show these victims were all Muslims).
MURIC Kwara State extends heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the attack and prays for the speedy recovery of the injured. We remain committed to promoting peaceful coexistence and reinforcing the message that every life, regardless of faith or background deserves protection, dignity, and respect.
Barrister Taofeek Jaji
Chairman,
Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC),
Kwara State Chapter.
