BY AHMED AKANBI
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has accused the Federal Government of betraying the Palestinian cause at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
The group said Nigeria failed to mention the Gaza crisis in its position paper, and declined to join 77 countries that walked out during the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech.
In a statement on Saturday, September 26, 2026, MURIC Executive Director, Prof Ishaq Akintola, described Nigeria’s action as “shocking, woeful, deplorable, and despicable.”
Akintola said Nigeria presented its position at the UNGA on Thursday, September 24, without addressing the Palestinian question.
He said the Nigerian delegation also refused to join the walkout staged against Netanyahu.
He cited the humanitarian situation in Gaza, including mass casualties, injuries and destruction of homes, schools and hospitals.
He added that Palestinians have endured prolonged shortages of food, water, fuel and electricity.
MURIC said Nigeria’s posture amounted to indifference at a time the world expected a strong moral voice.
The organisation urged Nigerians who believe in justice to hold the government accountable.
It also called on the human rights community to condemn Nigeria’s handling of the Palestinian issue.
The criticism comes as debate over the Gaza conflict continues to dominate discussions at this year’s General Assembly.