As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Muslim Public Affairs Centre, MPAC, has urged the nation’s leaders and citizens to confront the country’s deepening security and governance challenges with “conscience and courage.”
In a statement titled “Nigeria at 65: A Call to Conscience and Courage,” MPAC lamented the widespread violence and insecurity plaguing several regions, highlighting the devastating toll of banditry and insurgency across states such as Zamfara, Kaduna, Niger, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Plateau, Borno, and most recently, Kwara.
“Independence is not merely a flag raised or an anthem sung; it is the living responsibility to unite our people, protect the sanctity of life, and build a nation where justice and dignity are not privileges but rights for all,” the statement read.
Citing the Qur’an (4:135) on the duty to uphold justice and bear witness to truth, MPAC warned that a nation that loses its sense of justice “loses its soul.” It emphasized that freedom from fear of violence, hunger, and impunity should now define true independence in Nigeria.
“This is not a time for platitudes. Leaders at all levels must rise above excuses and act with the urgency that life demands. Justice must not be delayed. Security must not be politicized. Mercy must not be selective,” MPAC declared.
Signed by Executive Chairman, Disu Kumor, the group called on Nigerian citizens to resist despair and continue to uphold unity, compassion, and shared responsibility. It also issued a sobering reminder to those in positions of power: “Power is a trust, and before God, every drop of innocent blood will demand an answer.”
While praying for national healing, peace, and guidance, MPAC urged Nigerians to recommit themselves to the values of justice, equity, and mutual respect envisioned by the country’s founding fathers.
Nigeria at 65: Muslim group decries widespread violence, insecurity in Northern region