The South Eastern Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON) expresses its profound grief, outrage, and heartfelt condolences over the tragic killing of Colonel Abdurrazaq Abdulkarim Ude, a distinguished Nigerian Army Intelligence Officer, who was reportedly on course for promotion to the rank of Brigadier General in February 2027.

Colonel Abdurrazaq Abdulkarim Ude was an illustrious son of Ibagwa-Aka in Igbo-Eze South L. G. A, Enugu State, a committed member of the Igbo Muslim Ummah, and a proud product of the Islamic Centre of Eastern Nigeria (ICEN), Afikpo, Ebonyi State. Throughout his military career, he served Nigeria with uncommon courage, professionalism, and patriotism.

SEMON is deeply concerned by reports surrounding the circumstances of his death. Information currently available indicates that the late Colonel was shot at close range in the head, while his wife, driver, and gateman sustained gunshot wounds to their legs during the attack. These details, if confirmed through official investigations, raise serious concerns regarding the nature of the incident.

Contrary to early reports describing the incident as a kidnapping attempt, there are growing concerns that the circumstances may point to a carefully planned and targeted assassination. SEMON therefore urges the relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough, independent, transparent, and impartial investigation to establish the full facts surrounding this tragic incident.

We have also become aware of unverified accounts from anonymous sources alleging that, after the initial gunshots, the attackers allegedly communicated with another individual and were instructed to ensure that Colonel Ude was dead before leaving the scene. As these claims remain unverified, they underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive investigation capable of determining the truth and bringing every person responsible to justice.

The assassination of a senior military intelligence officer within the Federal Capital Territory raises grave questions about the prevailing security situation in Nigeria. If those entrusted with safeguarding the nation are themselves vulnerable to such attacks, it reinforces the urgent need to strengthen national security architecture and intelligence capabilities.

SEMON therefore calls on the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intensify efforts toward addressing the worsening insecurity confronting the nation. We further appeal for deliberate measures to provide greater protection for minority Muslim communities in the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones, whose members continue to contribute significantly to national development despite facing unique security and social challenges.

We stand in solidarity with the family of the late Colonel Abdurrazaq Abdulkarim Ude, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Igbo Muslim Ummah, and all Nigerians who mourn this painful loss. We pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) forgives his shortcomings, grants him Al-Jannatul Firdaus, grants speedy recovery to the injured members of his household, and comforts all those affected by this tragic incident.

Justice delayed must not become justice denied. The perpetrators of this heinous crime must be identified, prosecuted, and held accountable in accordance with the law.

For record, the name remains ABDURRAZAQ ABDULKAREEM UDE.

Signed: For; South Eastern Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON)

Dr. Suleman Agha Afikpo ( President)

Ustadh Faruq Abugu SEMON (Asst. Secretary)