The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has expressed disappointment and concern over Nigeria's stance on the Palestinian issue at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). In a statement released on September 26, 2026, MURIC's Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, described Nigeria's performance as "shocking, woeful, deplorable and despicable". The organization criticized Nigeria for not including the Palestinian question in its position paper and for not joining other countries in a walkout during Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech.
According to MURIC, Nigeria's delegates failed to take a stand alongside 77 other countries that walked out during Netanyahu's speech at the UNGA on September 24, 2026. The group noted that Netanyahu is considered an international criminal by the International Criminal Court (ICC) due to his role in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. MURIC emphasized that the Israeli Prime Minister's presence at the UNGA was highly contentious given the atrocities committed against the people of Gaza.
The situation in Gaza is dire, with over 73,922 Palestinians killed and approximately 174,995 wounded, according to reports. Medical facilities in Gaza have been severely strained, and half of the region is in ruins. The majority of casualties are vulnerable women and children who have been deprived of basic necessities such as food, water, fuel, and electricity for months.
MURIC also highlighted the plight of children and pregnant women among the Palestinian victims, who have been denied access to essential facilities. The organization reported that hundreds of Gaza homes are being demolished, and children are unable to attend school. The group urged Nigerians who believe in justice and fairness to hold the current government accountable for its stance on the Palestinian question.
The organization charged that Nigeria's position at the UNGA has damaged the country's image and mortgaged its future. MURIC accused the Nigerian government of hobnobbing with capitalist imperialists who are bent on oppressing poor nations. The group called on the Nigerian human rights community to speak out against the government's regrettable stance on Palestine.
MURIC's statement emphasized the need for Nigeria to take a principled stance on the Palestinian issue, given the country's commitment to justice and fairness. The organization urged Nigerians to demand accountability from their government and to promote a culture of human rights and dignity.
In conclusion, MURIC's condemnation of Nigeria's silence on Palestine at the UNGA highlights the need for the country to re-examine its foreign policy and prioritize human rights. The organization's call to action underscores the importance of promoting justice and fairness in international relations.
Key points
- Nigeria's failure to address the Palestinian question at the UNGA has been criticized by MURIC.
- The organization's condemnation of Nigeria's stance has sparked a call to action for the Nigerian human rights community.
- MURIC has urged Nigerians to hold the government accountable for its position on the Palestinian issue.
