COALITION OF MUSLIM ORGANISATION AND ASSOCIATION IN OGUN EAST AND IJEBULAND CONDEMNED LIST OF APC CHAIRMANSHIP

Press Statement by the Coalition of Islamic Organisations in Ogun State On The Injustice Against Muslims in the State

As-Salam alaykum warahmatullah wabarakaatuhu, dear brothers and sisters in Islam,

As concerned citizens and stakeholders in Ogun State, we, the coalition of Islamic organisations, come together to express our deep disappointment and profound worry about the disturbing political trajectory of our beloved state. Our collective interest is in ensuring peace, justice, and equity prevail, regardless of cultural or religious affiliation, and we have always advocated for harmony and understanding among all residents. We believe that every individual, irrespective of their faith, deserves equal opportunities and representation in the democratic environment that defines how we are governed and who govern.

We commend the Muslims in Ogun State for maintaining peace and understanding amidst emerging injustices in political appointments and representations, which grossly favour Christians. Despite constituting a significant percentage of the state’s population, Muslims have received less than 30% of appointments, including commissioners and special advisers/assistants, since the inception of the current administration. This disparity is alarming and undermines the principles of fairness and representation. It is crucial that our leaders recognise the value of diversity and inclusion.

The forum has deployed every civil and internal means to get the attention of the Executive Governor of Ogun State, His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, calling his attention to the wide gap of injustice against Muslims in the state. Unfortunately, our concerns have fallen on deaf ears. We have engaged in constructive dialogue, provided evidence-based pointers, and offered solutions to address the imbalance. Regrettably, the situation persists, and we are compelled to seek redress through this public statement.

The recent list of chairmanship selections for the 20 local governments under the All Progressive Congress (APC) further highlights this concern. A staggering analysis reveals that, in Ijebuland’s six local governments, only one Muslim was selected for the chairmanship seat. Similarly, in Ogun East’s nine local governments, a mere two Muslims were given the ticket for chairmanship. This glaring disparity raises fundamental questions: Does this mean capable Muslims are scarce? Are Muslims not worthy of trust? Does this reflect the true democratic spirit?

We have endured this injustice for too long, and it’s clear that this is an intentional effort to marginalise Muslims. We have sufficient capable representatives within the party to advocate for our interests. The Muslim community has contributed significantly to the state’s development and deserves equal representation. We will no longer tolerate this blatant disregard for our rights. It is essential that our leaders recognise the value of diversity and inclusion.

Some may question why we focus on APC; our concern is the representation of Islam, not political bidding. Muslims overwhelmingly supported the Governor’s election and reelection bids, we demonstrated our commitment to the state’s progress. We’re monitoring other parties’ candidate selections and will address those similarly, ensuring our voice is heard. We seek fairness, not favouritism.

The Muslim community speaks in one voice, scrutinising the Governor’s actions and language. Many of our brothers and sisters wonder if he aims to Christianise the state? We urge the Governor to reassure Muslims of his commitment to fairness and justice. The Governor’s silence on this matter is deafening, and his inaction fuels suspicions. We implore him to demonstrate leadership and address these concerns. The Muslim community deserves answers.

We demand, unequivocally, 80% representation in Vice Chairmanship and Secretary to Local Government selections. This is non-negotiable, as it reflects the demographic reality of our state and to appeal to the unfairness already melted against us. Anything less perpetuates injustice. We will not settle for tokenism or marginal representation. Our demand is rooted in the principles of fairness, equity, and justice.

While we cannot threaten the Governor or his party, our millions of members will determine our future choices based on the response to this demand. We will exercise our democratic rights and mobilise our community to make informed decisions in subsequent elections, gubernatorial and state house of assembly, even the federal legislative seats. We urge the Governor to consider the long-term implications of his actions and the consequences of ignoring our concerns.

In conclusion, we remain peace-loving and civil, committed to democratic provisions. However, we will not stand idly by while our rights are trampled upon. We hope the Governor is not prepared to test our will. We seek constructive engagement, not confrontation. Let us work together to build a fair, just, and prosperous Ogun State for all. We extend an olive branch, but our resolve remains unshaken.

Signed.

NACOMYO,OGUN STATE BRANCH,MSSN ZONE B,IJEBU.

COALITION OF MUSLIM YOUTHS AND PROFESSIONALS,OGUN STATE BRANCH.