(Lagos, Wednesday, 19/11/2025) The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) expresses deep concern and sorrow over the frightening escalation of violent attacks recorded across Nigeria in the past week. These tragic events once again highlight the grave security challenges confronting our nation and the urgent need for coordinated, decisive, and compassionate leadership from the Government.
In a period of just one week, Nigerians have witnessed five deeply troubling incidents:
1. The reported killing of a Brigadier-General of the Nigerian Army by ISWAP insurgents in the North-East.
2. The abduction of 25 schoolgirls from a secondary school in a predominantly Muslim community of Kebbi State, and the brutal killing of the Vice Principal who courageously attempted to protect them.
3. An attack on a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, Kwara State, where worshippers were murdered and several congregants abducted during a sacred gathering
4. The killing of an APC chieftain, accompanied by the abduction of members of his family by armed assailants.
5. A violent attack on communities in Patigi, Kwara State, where terrorists killed a police officer and a vigilante, and abducted two traditional chiefs.
A few weeks ago in Zamfara State, on October 7, 2025, bandits abducted 30 Muslim villagers from Zamfarawa village in Zugu District, Bukkuyum Local Government Area.
Another incident occurred on October 18, 2025, where bandits abducted 73 people from Buzugu and Rayau villages in the same Bukkuyum Local Government Area.
These incidents are part of a larger wave of abductions in Zamfara State, with over 145 people missing in the past four days, including students and worshippers.
MPAC condemns these attacks unequivocally. Each life lost represents a family shattered, a community destabilized, and a nation traumatised.
The murder of an officer, the abduction of innocent schoolgirls, and the desecration of a place of worship are acts that strike at the heart of our collective humanity. They remind us of a painful reality: Nigeria is failing in its most fundamental duty – the protection of life.
The safety of Nigerian citizens must never be treated as a negotiable matter. It must be the highest priority of government at all levels.
At this critical moment, the country needs leadership that is proactive, transparent, and unambiguously committed to public safety. The absence of swift, effective action emboldens perpetrators and deepens national despair.
MPAC calls on the Federal Government and all relevant security stakeholders to:
1. Intensify rescue efforts to ensure the safe and swift return of the abducted schoolgirls and all other victims of kidnapping.
2. Deploy comprehensive security measures to schools, especially in high-risk communities, to prevent further abductions and restore confidence in the education system.
3. Strengthen military intelligence and operational capacity, ensuring that no personnel – regardless of rank – faces avoidable exposure to insurgent attacks.
4. Provide heightened protection for places of worship, safeguarding Nigerians in their moments of devotion.
5. Communicate openly and consistently with citizens to rebuild trust and demonstrate that the Government values every Nigerian life.
The continued slaughter and kidnappings, occurring in schools, communities, highways, and places of worship, represent an intolerable assault on Nigeria’s unity, stability, and future. It is also a pathway for mischeif makers within and outside the country who seek the destruction of Nigeria to progress in their campaigns. The Government must rise to this challenge with the seriousness it demands.
MPAC remains steadfast in its commitment to advocate for justice, good governance, and the sanctity of human life. We stand with all victims of violence and reaffirm our belief that Nigeria can overcome these challenges through purposeful leadership, strengthened institutions, and the collective resolve of its citizens.
The path to peace and security requires courage, accountability, and an unwavering respect for human life. These are the Islamic values that MPAC upholds, and we will continue to demand the same from those entrusted with the security and wellbeing of our nation.
-The End-
Disu Kamor
Executive Chairman
Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC)
kamor.disu@mpac-ng.org
www.mpac-ng.org
