The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC), Nigeria, has strongly condemned the reported suspension of a mosque construction project at Ede High School in Osun State, describing the development as a significant breach of religious freedom and due process.
In a statement signed by its Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor, MPAC alleged that the decision to halt the mosque’s construction was influenced by the Seventh Day Adventist Church and prominent businessman Dr. Deji Adeleke. According to the group, the project had already secured formal approval from the Osun State Ministry of Education.
“This incident is not merely about a building. It is about whether the rule of law will be respected when it does not serve private interests. It is about whether the faith identity of Muslim students in public institutions can be dignified in the same manner others expect for themselves,” Kamor stated.
MPAC noted that Ede is a predominantly Muslim community and expressed concern over the persistent challenges faced by Muslim students in practicing their faith freely, including access to communal worship spaces.
The organization warned that the suspension of the mosque project could signal a broader pattern of private influence being used to suppress minority rights.
It called on Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, to intervene and ensure that the construction of the mosque proceeds without further obstacles.
Read also:
- MPAC demands probe into USAID’s alleged funding of Boko Haram
- MPAC condemns U.S. attack on Iran, warns of rising global tensions
- Gov. Zulum announces 50% petrol subsidy for farmers in B/Haram impacted communities
MPAC also urged the Ministry of Education to uphold its earlier approval for the project and appealed to security agencies to investigate any alleged acts of intimidation or harassment linked to the controversy.
Furthermore, MPAC encouraged religious leaders and civic organizations to speak out, asserting that the situation “demands moral clarity and courage.”
“Peace is not the absence of noise; it is the presence of justice,” Kamor added, urging the Muslim community in Ede to remain calm but resolute in asserting their constitutional rights.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful dialogue and legal advocacy, emphasizing that the mosque project represents more than just a physical structure—it symbolizes the pursuit of justice and social equity.
