The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has criticised remarks made by Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo, Regional Leader of the Church of Christ in Nations, who claimed during a televised interview on Monday that the Muslim–Muslim leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima amounted to “Christian genocide.”

Rev. Dachomo had argued that the religious composition of the presidency was politically disadvantageous to Christians, calling for the removal of Vice President Shettima.

His comments have sparked renewed debate on religious representation in Nigerian politics.

Reacting in a statement on Tuesday, MURIC described the cleric’s comments as exaggerated and inconsistent with democratic principles.

The statement, signed by Professor Ishaq Akintola, Founder and Executive Director of MURIC, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to peaceful engagement and dialogue as a means of resolving national issues.

The organisation said the reverend’s position disregarded the electoral process that produced the current administration and the subsequent judicial reviews that affirmed the results.

According to MURIC, elections were conducted in line with established procedures, and the courts, up to the Supreme Court, had upheld the outcome.

The group argued that calling for the removal of the vice president outside the democratic framework undermined constitutional order.

MURIC further accused Rev. Dachomo of overgeneralising religious concerns and presenting what it called an alarmist view of the Muslim–Muslim ticket.

The organisation said such narratives could heighten religious tension and distract citizens from collectively addressing national security challenges.

The group also alleged that past reactions to political developments by some Christian groups had been dramatic, asserting that such approaches do not contribute to national cohesion.

MURIC, however, commended Christians who, in its view, had maintained balanced perspectives on national issues.

Emphasising interfaith cooperation, MURIC reiterated its call for Muslims and Christians to unite against insecurity, including kidnapping and violent attacks across the country.

It referenced both the Bible and the Qur’an as encouraging dialogue and collaboration for the common good.

The organisation urged Nigerians to support the current administration in efforts to restore peace and stability, stressing that crime should not be viewed through religious or ethnic lenses.

It added that exposing criminals regardless of their background was crucial to national progress.

MURIC further advised Rev. Dachomo and other religious leaders to adopt moderate tones in public commentary, noting that religious figures serve as models for their followers.

It said clerics should avoid statements capable of escalating tension among adherents.