The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) has issued a stern warning to politicians, urging them to separate religion from politics to avoid unnecessary clashes like the recent incident at the Osogbo Central Eid Praying Ground. MUSWEN President, Alh Rasaki Oladejo, emphasized the need for politicians to exercise restraint and distinguish between religious obligations and political maneuvering.
The clash at the Osogbo Eid Praying Ground, which almost disrupted the Eid prayers, involved loyalists of Governor Ademola Adeleke and supporters of the immediate past Senate spokesperson, Ajibola Basiru. MUSWEN expressed disappointment that a matter that could have been amicably resolved spiraled into chaos on a sacred day dedicated to glorifying Almighty Allah.
This incident highlights the unfortunate extent to which political intolerance has permeated the country, even affecting Muslims who should uphold the principles of universal brotherhood. MUSWEN called on the feuding parties to set aside their differences, collaborate, and work towards the betterment of the citizens and the Muslim Ummah.
MUSWEN also commended the prompt intervention of Osogbo Muslim leaders, particularly Alhaji Khamis Tunde Badmus, the Asiwaju Musulumi of Yorubaland, for preventing the situation from escalating further.