Muslim group criticises Nigerian government over lack of free Eid-el-Kabir train rides

Summary 

• MURIC accuses Federal Government and NRC of religious bias for not offering free train rides during Eid-el-Kabir 2025
• Group highlights free train services provided during Christmas, claiming Muslims are treated as “second-class citizens”
• MURIC demands apology from President Tinubu and equal treatment for future Muslim festivals

Lagos, Nigeria – The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), led by Professor Ishaq Akintola, has publicly condemned the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) for failing to provide free train rides during the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebration. The group argues that this omission reflects religious bias, particularly as free train services have been offered during Christian holidays like Christmas.

Professor Ishaq Akintola, Leader of Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC)

In a statement, MURIC pointed out that the NRC announced only paid, commercial train services for the Eid-el-Kabir period, including additional trips on routes such as Lagos-Ibadan and Warri-Itakpe. This contrasts sharply with the complimentary services provided during the Christmas season, which MURIC claims demonstrates unequal treatment of Nigerian Muslims.

“The Muslim-Muslim ticket and a Muslim president have not translated into fair treatment for Muslims,” Akintola said, accusing the government of relegating Muslims to “second-class citizens.”

The group has called for an apology from President Bola Tinubu and urged the government and NRC to ensure equitable treatment for Muslims during future festive seasons.

Despite their criticisms, MURIC extended Eid-el-Kabir greetings to Nigerian Muslims, encouraging patience and perseverance in the face of perceived marginalisation.

The Federal Government and NRC have yet to respond to the allegations.