- The Media Forum of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria has officially rejected accusations by Israeli Ambassador Michael Freeman, who linked the movement and Iran to terrorism and regional instability.
- The group described the claims as a “blatant falsehood” and a provocative attempt to incite chaos among Nigerian Muslims while silencing voices advocating for oppressed people.
- Heightened security was observed across Kaduna on Friday, with armed police stationed at strategic roundabouts following rumors of potential unrest after Juma’at prayers.
The Media Forum of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria has issued a scathing rebuttal to the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, following his recent claims associating the group with the sponsorship of terrorism in West Africa.
Eko Hot Blog reports that in a press statement released on Friday, March 6, 2026, the forum’s president, Ammar Muhammad, condemned the envoy’s remarks as an effort to demonize the movement and distract from global criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
EDITOR’S PICK
- 540 Candidates Cleared as Lagos APC Moves to Elect LGA Executives
- Court Sentences Pastor to Death for Killing UniUyo Student
- Lagos Teacher Questions Lack of Recognition for One-Day Governor Mentors
The movement argued that it was “ironic and unacceptable” for a representative of a state currently facing international accusations of genocide to lecture others on security.
The statement specifically referenced the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) actions against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a counter-point to Ambassador Freeman’s allegations.
“For more than five decades of Islamic activism in Nigeria, no court of law has ever convicted the Islamic Movement of terrorism or violent activity,” the group maintained, asserting their constitutional right to express solidarity with oppressed communities worldwide based on humanitarian concerns.
Amidst this war of words, the security situation in Kaduna took a visible turn on Friday.
Heavily armed police officers were deployed to major transit points, including the Station, Stadium, and NEPA Roundabouts, as well as the Singer area of the city.
The proactive deployment followed widespread rumors of a planned demonstration by Muslim faithful after the weekly congregational prayers.
While major hubs like the Mahmud Gumi Central Market remained open, a noticeable decline in commercial vehicle activity suggested a growing anxiety among residents regarding possible volatility.
The Islamic Movement has called on the Nigerian public to disregard the ambassador’s allegations, characterizing them as a “dangerous and failed attempt” to sow division among citizens.
As the conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate, its impact on Nigeria’s domestic security landscape remains a focal point for authorities.
The movement reiterated that its support for the Palestinian people is rooted in moral conviction rather than violent intent, urging vigilance against “misinformation and hostility” aimed at portraying Muslims negatively.
