The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has leveled accusations of religious discrimination against the Federal Government regarding two separate issues: the proposed construction of a N25 billion ecumenical chapel at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and the distribution of relief funds.
In a statement released on Friday, MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, expressed concern that the project, reportedly carried out in partnership with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), raises questions about equal treatment of religious communities in Nigeria.
The organization also highlighted what it sees as an unfair allocation of relief funds, pointing to the reported N2 billion given to victims of violence in Plateau State while other affected states such as Borno, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Kwara received no similar aid.
MURIC further questioned the reported N1.2 billion distributed among the 19 northern states for the Eid al-Kabir celebration, calling the amount disproportionate compared to the Plateau intervention. “How can one state receive N2 billion while all 19 northern states must split N1.2 billion? Is it fair to treat Muslims as second-class citizens?” the statement asked.
The group also demanded clarity from the federal government regarding plans for Muslim religious infrastructure, urging authorities to ensure parity. “We ask the government to tell Nigerians when land of equal size will be given to Muslims to build their national mosque. And don’t forget the N25 billion sitting at the Central Bank that should accompany the land allocation,” MURIC added.
MURIC warned that perceived imbalances could heighten religious tensions and called on the government to uphold fairness and inclusivity in its policies. As of the time of writing, neither the federal government nor CAN has responded to the allegations.