THE Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) and the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), B-Zone, have condemned the recent attack by members of the Oro cult on a congregation of Muslims in Idi Omo Mosque, Ile-Ife, Osun State.
In a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Professor Muslih ‘Tayo Yahya, MUSWEN described the attack as a violation of the human rights of “those peaceful worshippers.”
The organisation said: “Our hearts go out to the victims of this cruel attack, who sustained various forms of life-threatening injuries. We pray for their speedy recovery. This attack is a horrible reminder of the dangers of religious intolerance and the urgent need to protect the right of individuals to freedom of religion.
“We are appalled by the fact that such an act could take place in a peaceful place of worship. We call on the government, His Royal Majesty, the Oni of Ife, and all relevant authorities to investigate this matter and bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.
“We further urge the government to take concrete measures to ensure that such events are not repeated and that the safety and security of religious groups, no matter how few, are effectively safeguarded.
“We have seen an increase in religious intolerance and violence in recent years, and this incident is yet another reminder of how important it is to promote religious tolerance and understanding. We must all work together to protect the rights of individuals to practise their faith in peace and safety, without fear of persecution.
“While urging everyone to speak up against such acts of violence and hatred and to defend religious freedom and tolerance, we call on the affected community and the entire Muslim ummah to remain calm and shun any temptation to retaliation.
“We must all work together to create a society in which people of all faiths and beliefs are respected, and in which everyone is free to practise their faith without molestation.”
In a separate statement signed by Mr Qaasim Odedeji (Amir), Alhaji Abdul-Jalil (Secretary) and Mr Moshood Abdur-Razaq (Public Relations Officer), the MSSN B-Zone said the attack was an affront on peace, dignity and humanity.
It said it was wrong for any group of people to unleash violence on innocent citizens for their belief.
The group called on the state government and security agencies to bring the perpetrators to book, saying no attempt should be made to sweep the matter under the carpet.
It also urged all stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders and community leaders, to work together to promote peace and harmony in the state, saying “we believe that everyone has a role to play in fostering peace, unity and understanding among different religious and ethnic groups in the state.”
The MSSN appealed to members of the Muslim community to remain calm and peaceful in the face of “this provocation,”, saying, “We must resist the temptation to take matters into our own hands and instead work towards ensuring that justice is done through lawful means.”
It expressed condolences with the victims of the tragedy and called on the state government and other stakeholders to do everything to restore peace and harmony in the state.
