A religious group called Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has appreciated the Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde for removing his name from the signboard of Adogba Central Mosque, Iwo Road, Ibadan.
The governor reportedly gave orders for the removal on Sunday following Saturday’s protest.
The commendation was contained in a statement made available on Monday by its Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola.
According to him, “Reports reaching MURIC’s Lagos headquarters say Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has removed his name from the signboard of Adogba Central Mosque, Iwo Road, Ibadan.
“Recall that Adogba Central Mosque was demolished by the Makinde administration in 2020, despite our protestations. The governor promised to rebuild it, and it was recently rebuilt but the governor renamed the mosque after himself, and MURIC asked him to remove his name.
“We advised him to delete his name and leave the mosque’s original name there before the fast-approaching gubernatorial election of Saturday, March 18, 2023, in order to avoid protest votes from Muslims in the state.
“The state branch of MURIC has confirmed that the governor’s name has been removed from the inscription on the mosque, which now reads ‘Adogba Central Mosque’. This was done yesterday, March 12th, 2023
“We appreciate Governor ‘Seyi Makinde for complying with MURIC’s advice. MURIC may be radical, but it is rational. We affirm that we are not confrontational or militant.
Neither of us are unnecessarily difficult to relate to once the relationship is based on mutual respect and no attempt is made to trample on the Allah-given fundamental rights of Muslims.
“We believe that the adherents of different religions can peacefully coexist in this country and work together towards making Nigeria great.
“May Allah continue to protect and bless Governor ‘Seyi Makinde. We are satisfied with the removal of his name from the mosque. No more bitter feelings, no more distrust.
MURIC will continue to pursue cordial relations with both government and private institutions in Nigeria as long as they continue to give Muslims their rights and dues and as long as they allow their actions to be guided by the principles of equity, fairness, and justice,” Akintola stated.