By Deborah Nnamdi
The Chief Imam of Uromi and President of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Edo-Delta Chapter, Sheikh Murtadho Muhammad, has been abducted by unidentified gunmen.
The incident reportedly occurred around 2 p.m. on Sunday in the Angle 90 area of Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.
According to eyewitnesses, Sheikh Muhammad was kidnapped shortly after completing one of the daily prayers. He was said to be on his way to buy food for his family when he was forcefully taken near his residence.
Confirming the incident, Alhaji Abdulazeez Igbinidu, Chairman of the Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), condemned the abduction, calling it “inglorious and unacceptable.” He demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the cleric.
“I hear they are demanding an enormous ransom, but we do not have such money. Paying it would only encourage more of these acts,” Igbinidu said.
He urged the Edo State government to intensify efforts to secure the release of the Imam and to strengthen the security of all residents.
“The government has the security apparatus. They must act swiftly to ensure the Imam’s safe return and protect citizens so they can live without fear of kidnapping or violence,” he added.
A family source confirmed that the kidnappers have contacted them, demanding a ransom of ₦30 million.
The abduction has raised serious concerns within the Muslim community, given Sheikh Muhammad’s dual role as a spiritual leader and advocate for youth empowerment.
Attempts to reach the Edo State Police Command for confirmation were unsuccessful, as spokesperson CSP Moses Yamu did not respond to calls or text messages.
