_Statement says “conviction is not a crime”; takes responsibility for hurt caused_
A statement released on Monday by I.D. Ijele on behalf of Muri has offered what it described as a “deep, unreserved apology” to several groups, including bereaved families, aggrieved party members, and political rivals, while maintaining that “leadership is not weakness, and truth is not betrayal.”
“To those who feel offended by Muri, he has apologized!” the statement opened. “To the families who lost their loved ones in the course of this struggle; no words can ever be enough. Still, from the depth of his heart, he apologizes. Your pain is not ignored.”
Addressing post-election grievances, the statement said: “To those who feel betrayed by the outcome of the election; your anger is understood. Your disappointment is heard. And yes, he has apologized.”
It also reached out to members of the All Progressives Congress. “To the APC members and leaders, both at the state and national levels, who believe he should have stayed instead of moving to the SDP; he has apologized. But conviction is not a crime, and standing by one’s belief is not disloyalty,” it read.
The statement made pointed remarks directed at former Governor Yahaya Bello and his allies. “To Bello and his group; you pushed us to the wall. You inflicted pain. We lost our people. Blood was shed. You even tried to take his life. Yet, despite it all, he chooses forgiveness. Not because you deserve it, but because he refuses to become what you represent.”
Taking responsibility as leader, the statement added: “As the leader of this movement, if his actions or even his silence in certain moments have caused hurt, he takes full responsibility and offers a deep, unreserved apology.”
It closed with a message to loyal backers: “To the hardened, loyal, unshaken supporters; you stood when others ran. You believed when others doubted. For that, he is eternally grateful. Your loyalty is not taken for granted. He loves you all. This is not just an apology. This is strength. This is leadership. This is Muri.”
The statement was signed by I.D. Ijele and dated 04/05/2026.