Edo Killing: MURIC Demands Justice for Victims, Compensation for Families
Muslim Rights Group Condemns “Barbaric” Attack on Northerners
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has strongly condemned the brutal killing of 16 Northern travelers in Uromi, Edo State, describing the incident as “barbaric, heinous, horrendous and reprehensible.” The human rights organization has called for swift justice and adequate compensation for victims’ families.
Details of the Tragic Incident
According to a statement by MURIC’s Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, the victims were traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano for the Eid al-Fitr holiday on March 27, 2025, when they were attacked by members of the Edo State Security Corps and local vigilantes. Shocking video evidence shows the victims being surrounded, doused in petrol, and set on fire.
MURIC’s Demands for Justice
The organization has made several key demands:
- Immediate apprehension and punishment of all perpetrators
- Commensurate compensation for victims’ families, to be paid by both the culprits and state government
- Strengthening of laws against hate speech and ethnic incitement
Legal and Religious Perspectives
MURIC cited both constitutional and international human rights provisions, including Article 14 Section 2(b) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution and Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantee security and welfare of citizens. The group also referenced Qur’an 5:32, emphasizing the sanctity of human life in Islamic teachings.
Political Context and Appeal for Restraint
The statement linked the violence to “anti-North incitements and anti-Muslim hate speeches” during Nigeria’s 2023 election cycle. While condemning the attack, MURIC commended Muslim leaders for their restraint and appealed for continued calm among the faithful nationwide.
Source: Original Report