The Ogun State Muslim Council (OMC) has appealed for calm among Muslims in the state and called for the strengthening of institutional mechanisms to address issues affecting the Muslim community and foster peaceful coexistence.
In a statement issued by the council’s Secretary-General, Alhaji Kamaldeen Akintunde, the OMC expressed deep concern over recent developments that have stirred unease within the Muslim population. While the council did not explicitly reference any specific incident, it reiterated the need for restraint, unity, and constructive engagement in seeking redress.
“We urge our brothers and sisters to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding in the face of any provocation or perceived marginalisation. We must continue to uphold the teachings of Islam, which promote peace, justice, and dialogue,” the statement read.
The council emphasized that the best path to addressing grievances lies in reinforcing the capacity of institutions responsible for upholding religious rights, equity, and justice. It said a robust institutional framework would ensure fairness in public administration, education, and socio-political participation.
According to the OMC, institutional strengthening must include equitable representation of Muslims in government appointments, policy formulation, and the protection of their constitutional rights in schools and public spaces.
The council also called on the Ogun State Government and other stakeholders to prioritise religious inclusion and proactively engage religious leaders to promote mutual understanding across faiths.
Reacting to the OMC’s statement, several Muslim scholars and civic groups lauded the council’s approach, describing it as a mature and responsible response aimed at long-term stability.
The Ogun State Muslim Council reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence and said it would continue to work with relevant agencies, traditional rulers, and civil society to promote religious harmony and protect the rights of Muslims in the state.
The council also reminded the public that Islam is a religion of peace and urged Muslims to be vigilant, united, and prayerful in the pursuit of justice and societal progress.
