Osun State Government has chided Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) for its allegations against the state governor, Ademola Adeleke, over the appointment of commissioners.
It said MURIC had failed in its bid to foment religious crisis in the state, saying that the appointment of commissioners and permanent secretaries was based on merit and competence.
In a statement, the government noted that ever since assuming office, Adeleke had premised his governance decisions on competency and commitment to duty by appointees, as well as an avowed commitment to deliver good governance and correct inherited ills from previous governments.
“His first appointees occupying commanding heights of the government were appointed not by religion but merit, competency and conformation with his style of leadership.
“The same principle of meritocracy, which produced the nominated commissioners, was applied in the appointment of permanent secretaries. This policy of equity, fairness and competency also guided the many landmark decisions of the governor.
“MURIC should look elsewhere for its merchandise of extremism and division. Religious leaders in Osun understand and support the governor with prayers, which uphold him every second,” the statement reads in part.
Also, the World Bishops’ Council (WBC) Africa, berated Prof. Ishaq Akintola for making a move to cause religious mayhem in the state by accusing the governor of being a secret agent of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) over appointments.
Spokesman of the Council, Bishop Seun Adeoye, in a statement in Osogbo, said: “For the mere fact that Christians had in the past ignored series of inciting statements issued by Akintola against their faith should not be seen as cowardice but rather as a way of keeping away from a man whose hidden intention has always been to cause religious crisis in the country.
“There is nothing wrong if Akintola was asking for fairness for Muslims from Governor Adeleke but this man surreptitiously hid in his statement what can cause chaos between peace-loving Christians and Muslims in the state.”
The Council urged Akintola to thread softly and give peace a chance not only in Osun but in Nigeria.
“Akintola knew what he was doing when he said Governor Adeleke is a secret agent of the Christian Association of Nigeria and that what the Governor did by the commissioners-nominee was a wanton blockage of Muslims to over-pampered and over-fed Christians in Osun State.
“This is a call to violence against the Christians in the state. Unfortunately, this Akintola, an indigene of the state was dumb when Governor Adeleke, a Muslim himself announced his first three key appointments six months ago.
“These three men are all Muslims and they included the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), the Chief of Staff (COS), and the Governor’s Spokesman.”
According to him, “I am not in a position to defend Governor Adeleke’s political appointments. I am not a politician. And I wish to say that it is not a bad idea to speak out against marginalisation.
“But for Akintola to cause mayhem between Christians and Muslims who have been living harmoniously together because of political appointments will not be tolerated.
“Before MURIC Executive Director put pen in his paper and sign any statement again, he needs to think of its consequences,” he added.
Also a group, Osun Democrats for Democracy (ODD) has criticised an alleged attempt by Akintola to incite religious conflict in the state.
In a statement in Osogbo the state capital by the chairman of the group in the state, Mr. Abdulmrauf Odunlade ODD described an alleged comment by Akintola as a shocking and deeply troubling development.
It said: “This is an attempt to incite religious conflict in Osun State. It is deeply concerning that an individual who is not even present in Osun State would take it upon himself to sow the seeds of division and religious bigotry
“Professor Akintola’s attempt to incite religious conflict in Osun State is a dangerous display of religious bigotry that must be unequivocally condemned. It is disheartening that a person in a position of authority, who should advocate for unity and peaceful coexistence, would engage in such divisive rhetoric.
“It is crucial to emphasize that Osun State, like any other part of Nigeria, thrives on the diversity and cooperation of its citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations.
“Instead of focusing on religious bigotry, we should prioritize the competence and capability of individuals in positions of authority.”
It said the prosperity and progress of any society depend on the ability of its leaders to govern and address the pressing issues facing the populace effectively.
In Odunlade’s words: “We should demand leaders who can bring about development, promote inclusivity, and foster a sense of belonging among all citizens, irrespective of their religious beliefs.”
“Osun State has a rich history of religious tolerance, with people from diverse backgrounds living harmoniously for generations. and we must continue to uphold this spirit of peaceful coexistence and reject any attempts to sow seeds of discord. Religious leaders, scholars, and influential figures must promote dialogue, understanding, and respect among different faith communities.
“Religious conflicts have ravaged various parts of Nigeria in the past, causing immeasurable loss of lives and property. We cannot afford religious bigotry to infiltrate our society and ignite similar conflicts. It is the responsibility of every citizen to condemn attempts to incite violence and ensure that our state remains a safe haven for all residents.
‘As citizens, we must hold our leaders accountable for their words and actions. It is high time we demanded responsible leadership that transcends religious and ethnic boundaries.
“Also as responsible members of society, we must reject and denounce any form of religious bigotry or attempts to incite violence. We must collectively promote an inclusive and tolerant society that celebrates diversity rather than allowing divisive forces to take root.
‘The attempt by Professor Ishaq Akintola to incite religious conflict in Osun State is highly condemnable.
“We must stand united against religious bigotry and prioritize competence, inclusivity, and peaceful coexistence. It is through responsible leadership and a commitment to dialogue and understanding that we can build a prosperous and harmonious society for all citizens.
“Osun State deserves leaders who prioritize the welfare of its people over personal and religious biases.
“To ensure a peaceful and prosperous future, we must reject divisive ideologies and work towards fostering an inclusive society that values the rights and dignity of all its citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs,” he stated.
