Kidnapping of Chief Imam Sparks Widespread Concern Among Muslim Community in Edo State

Strategic Insights -

The reported abduction of Murtadho Muhammad, Chief Imam of Uromi in Esan North-East Local Government, and President of the Muslim Students' Society of Nigeria (MSSN) Edo-Delta Chapter, has sent shockwaves through the Muslim community in Edo State. According to reports, the incident occurred last week Wednesday, shortly after the Islamic afternoon prayer (Dhuhr Prayer), when the Chief Imam was forcefully taken away by gunmen while stepping out to buy food for his family near his residence. The kidnappers have since contacted the family, demanding a ransom of N30 million for his release.

Key Takeaways:

  • Murtadho Muhammad, Chief Imam of Uromi and President of MSSN Edo-Delta Chapter, was abducted by gunmen on Wednesday last week.
  • The incident occurred shortly after the Islamic afternoon prayer (Dhuhr Prayer) in the Angle 90 Area of the Local Government.
  • The kidnappers have contacted the family, demanding a ransom of N30 million for the Chief Imam's release.
  • The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident and assured efforts are ongoing to rescue the victims and track down the culprits.
  • Abdulazeez Igbinidu, Chairman of the Edo chapter of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has called on Governor Monday Okpebholo and the security agencies to secure the cleric's safe return.
  • Igbinidu condemned the act, demanding the immediate release of the Islamic leader.

Statistics:

  • N30 million: The ransom demanded by the kidnappers for the release of the Chief Imam.
  • 10/7/2025: The date the incident was reported to the Edo State Police Command.
  • One: The number of Islamic leaders in the community affected by the ransom demand.

Sources:

  • BusinessDay, October 7 (no date specified)
  • Edo State Police Command
  • Abdulazeez Igbinidu, Chairman, Edo chapter of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA)