The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has accused political saboteurs of preventing the inclusion of Yoruba Muslims in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration by blocking the ministerial appointment of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
In a statement released on Monday, MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, said that El-Rufai’s exclusion had significantly weakened efforts to address the economic and political marginalization of Yoruba Muslims.
“Those who worked against El-Rufai’s ministerial appointment have indirectly obstructed our mission to liberate Yoruba Muslims,” Akintola said.
He alleged that these forces had deliberately sidelined competent Yoruba Muslims from key positions in the Tinubu government, furthering their exclusion from governance.
“The continued neglect of Yoruba Muslims has worsened their educational, economic, and political disadvantages,” he added.
MURIC also criticized what it described as “religious impersonation,” claiming that certain individuals had falsely presented themselves as Muslims to secure political appointments.
“It is fraudulent, yet it remains a common practice among those who seek to exploit religious identity for political gain,” Akintola alleged.
The group expressed frustration over the lack of representation for Yoruba Muslim organizations in the current administration.
“Islamic groups in the South West, including MURIC, have no access to the presidency, and we lack any significant political presence in this government,” Akintola lamented.
MURIC urged President Tinubu to reconcile with El-Rufai, citing the former governor’s role in mobilizing the North for Tinubu’s electoral success.
“Given El-Rufai’s contributions, it is only fair that efforts be made to mend ties between him and the president,” the statement noted.
The organization further recommended that Tinubu establish a transparent system to ensure that authentic Yoruba Muslims are appointed to government positions.
“A proper verification process will prevent identity fraud and allow competent Muslims to contribute to national governance,” MURIC concluded.