MURIC Demands DSS Compliance with Court Order to Release Abducted Minor
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has issued a strong appeal to the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately release Walida Abdulhadi, an abducted minor, from its custody in Abuja. This demand aligns with a court directive issued on January 7, 2026, which ordered the DSS to reunite the victim with her parents in Hadejia, Jigawa State.
Call for Arrest and Prosecution of Alleged Abductor
In addition to urging the DSS, MURIC has called on police authorities to arrest and prosecute Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi, the alleged abductor of Walida Abdulhadi. The group emphasizes that this action is necessary to uphold justice and ensure the safety of the minor.
Malam Hassan Sani Indabawa, the MURIC chairman in Kano State, expressed concern that the court orders have not been enforced by the DSS, despite reforms under the leadership of DSS Director-General Oluwatosin Ajayi. Indabawa made this known in a statement on February 24, 2026, as reported by Daily Trust.
Commendation and Criticism of DSS Leadership
While commending Ajayi for promoting accountability, transparency, and respect for human rights within the DSS, MURIC highlighted the urgency of adhering to judicial directives. The case has sparked a broader debate over child protection, parental rights, and institutional accountability in Nigeria.
Muslim groups have rejected DSS claims regarding the incident, insisting that Walida Abdulhadi was abducted and abused. They are demanding an independent investigation and justice, while authorities maintain that Walida is in protective custody.
Background on MURIC's Stance
This incident follows MURIC's recent rejection of pressure from US-linked figures to outlaw Shariah in Nigeria, which the group described as foreign interference. Prof. Ishaq Akintola of MURIC questioned America's intentions in Nigeria's anti-terror efforts and warned that Nigerian Muslims would resist any attempts to tamper with Shariah.
The case underscores ongoing tensions between civil society groups and security agencies, with calls for greater adherence to legal frameworks and human rights protections.
