Osun Government Rejects MURIC Claims Of Muslim Marginalisation Allegations

[Mudhab]

The Osun State Government has strongly rejected allegations by the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) that Governor Ademola Adeleke is marginalising Muslims in his administration. The government described the claims as misleading and lacking factual basis.

The controversy began after MURIC's Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, accused the governor of sidelining Muslims in key political appointments. In response, the state government said the allegations were either the result of misinformation or a deliberate attempt to misrepresent the true situation.

Speaking through the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, the government stated that Governor Adeleke promotes inclusiveness and respects people of all religious backgrounds. According to the government, several qualified Muslims currently occupy important positions within the administration.

The government pointed out that Alhaji Teslim Igbalaye serves as the Secretary to the State Government, while Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye holds the position of Chief of Staff. It also noted that other Muslims serve as commissioners, advisers, and heads of government agencies across the state.

To support its position, the government highlighted projects it considers beneficial to the Muslim community. These include the ongoing construction of the Osun Hajj Camp and the approval of a mosque within the Government House to serve Muslim staff and visitors.

The state government urged Professor Akintola and MURIC to verify information before making public statements. It further called on citizens to focus on government performance in areas such as security, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and job creation rather than engaging in religious or identity-based politics.

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