By Habidah Musa
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has criticised a proposal by some United States lawmakers seeking to impose sanctions on certain Nigerian individuals and groups, describing the move as selective and unbalanced.
Five US lawmakers recently proposed a bill recommending measures such as visa bans and asset freezes against former Kano State Governor and NNPP leader, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as well as the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, among others.
Reacting in a statement, MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, argued that any sanction regime should be comprehensive and reflect alleged violations across religious and regional divides.
He maintained that religious extremism exists among both Christians and Muslims in Nigeria and urged foreign actors to ensure fairness and balance in assessing the country’s complex security and religious landscape.
The group also called for broader engagement with stakeholders from different faith backgrounds before any final decision is taken.
There has been no official response from US authorities regarding the concerns raised.
