The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has raised concerns over the commissioners-nominee list submitted by Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, which reportedly includes 17 Christians and only seven Muslims.
In a statement released on Monday, Professor Ishaq Akintola, the Executive Director of MURIC, compared Governor Adeleke to the iconic fictional spy James Bond, known as 007. Akintola accused the governor of acting as a covert agent for the Christian Association of Nigeria, alleging that he has been granted a license to oppress Muslims within the state.
MURIC’s statement expressed strong disapproval of what it called the unjust denial of privileges intended for Muslims, which it claimed were being diverted to a privileged Christian minority in Osun State.
Akintola criticized Governor Adeleke for engaging in deceitful tactics, describing his actions as lacking honor, dignity, and transparency, while emphasizing his infamy and disregard for the well-being of the Muslim community. The statement accused the governor of perpetuating the marginalization, mistreatment, and oppression of Muslims in the state.
Citing a verse from the Qur’an, specifically Qur’an 2:41, Akintola suggested that time would reveal the true nature of the individuals being used by Governor Adeleke, referring to them as “selfish Muslims.” He asserted that honesty and openness are fundamental qualities required for effective and enduring leadership.
The statement read in part, “We condemn this wanton blockage of privileges that should go to Muslims and their diversion to over-pampered and over-fed Christians in Osun State.
“By deceiving Muslims in the state and engaging in spiritual hide and seek, Governor Adeleke has exhibited qualities odoriferously short in honour and dignity but egregiously long in infamy and bohemianism.
“The goal of Adeleke’s deception is for the perpetuation of the marginalisation, shortchanging, and oppression of Muslims in Osun State.
Quoting Qur’an 2:41, Akintola said time will tell when the few “selfish Muslims” Adeleke is using will soon see that honesty and openness are what make enduring leadership
While MURIC affirmed its support for meritocracy, it criticized the notion that merit resides solely within the Christian community. The organization argued that there are numerous highly qualified Muslims who deserve fair and equitable representation in positions of power. MURIC called for an end to the days when Muslims could be easily deceived or marginalized.
It should be noted that Governor Adeleke recently appointed two former commissioners from the tenure of the ex-governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, along with 23 others. The names of the appointees were read out by the Speaker of the State Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, during a plenary session.
The two former members of Aregbesola’s cabinet included in the list are Mr. Kolapo Alimi, who previously served as the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and Mr. Biyi Odunlade, who held the positions of Special Adviser and later Commissioner for Sports.
The issue of religious sentiments influencing political decisions in Nigeria has long been a matter of concern. This particular situation in Osun State highlights the ongoing problem of prioritizing religious affiliation over competence. This divisive approach has led to animosity and hostility between different religious groups, as any perceived underrepresentation of one religion is often interpreted as an intentional marginalization of the other.
This raises the important question of when Nigerians will overcome their religious biases and focus on the qualifications and capabilities of individuals rather than their religious background.
Opinions on this matter may vary, but it is crucial for society to strive for inclusivity, fairness, and a merit-based system that ensures equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.
What are your thoughts on this matter, taking into account your Nigerian perspective that remains unbiased by religious sentiment?
