The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has called on Nigerian authorities to urgently clarify the status of Mr. Ramzy Abu Ibrahim, head of the Palestinian community in Nigeria, following unconfirmed reports of his arrest by security operatives.
According to multiple media sources, Mr. Abu Ibrahim was allegedly detained on Friday at his residence in Abuja by individuals believed to be members of an anti-terrorism unit. Since then, his whereabouts remain unknown, and there has been no official statement from any Nigerian security agency confirming or explaining the reported arrest.
MPAC, in a statement released on Monday, said efforts by Mr. Abu Ibrahim’s family and the Palestinian Embassy in Abuja to locate or communicate with him have so far been unsuccessful.
Expressing deep concern, MPAC urged the Nigerian government to confirm whether Mr. Abu Ibrahim is in state custody and, if so, to disclose the reasons for his detention. The organisation emphasized the importance of upholding due process and ensuring that his legal and human rights are protected.
“MPAC wholeheartedly supports Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts,” said Disu Kamor, Executive Chairman of the group. “However, these efforts must be conducted with transparency, accountability, and fairness. Innocent individuals should not be made scapegoats in politically motivated actions or smear campaigns.”
The organisation also raised alarm over speculation that Mr. Abu Ibrahim’s detention may be connected to his recent public criticism of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, particularly the killing of civilians and journalists. MPAC warned that if this link is accurate, the arrest could be seen as a troubling attempt to silence legitimate dissent and advocacy.
The group listed four demands for Nigerian authorities which are, immediate confirmation of Mr. Abu Ibrahim’s arrest and whereabouts, a public explanation of the reasons for his detention, guaranteed access to legal representation and due process; and protection of minority and vulnerable communities, including Palestinians living in Nigeria.
“Nigeria must not allow itself to be used directly or indirectly by foreign or local interests to target Palestinians or their advocates,” the statement said. “Justice, transparency, and human dignity must guide all actions of state institutions.”
MPAC concluded by reiterating that the fight against terrorism must be not only firm but also fair, and visibly so, in order to maintain public confidence and uphold Nigeria’s commitment to justice.