Attacks On Muslims : Curb Excesses Of Masquerades In Ogbomoso, Ibadan, Others – MURIC Charges  Police 

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Oyo State Chapter,has charged police and other security agents to curb frequent attacks on Muslims and Masquerades  in the state.

The Islamic human rights organization also alerted the security of the imminent crisis that may ensue during the  Ololu Masquerade Festival, which is scheduled to begin on Monday, 28th July 2025 in Ibadan.
A statement by  MURIC’s secretary ,Malam Ibrahim Agunbiade,strongly condemns  barbaric acts of violence by  the Masquerades who assaulted an Imam walking on the street by using a stick to snatch the cap on the Imam’s head.

MURIC strongly condemns this barbaric act, as our motto stands firmly on the principle of “Dialogue, Not Violence.” This act is absurd, criminal, demeaning, nonsensical and completely unacceptable.

However, in view of the alleged reprisal attacks by Muslims in Ogbomosho, we call for caution. Two wrongs do not make a right. We appeal to Muslims to exercise patience.

MURIC  urges the security operatives in the area to warn all masquerades against assaulting Muslims or attacking mosques. These are the kind of actions that can escalate the crisis.

The statement reads :”It has come to the attention of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Oyo State Chapter, that a masquerader named Lobanika, during his public outing on Friday, 25th July, 2025, assaulted an Imam walking on the street by using a stick to snatch the cap on the Imam’s head. Not only that, the masquerade also stormed Oṣaro market on the same day and attacked another Muslim with a cutlass.

” In a multicultural and religiously diverse state like ours, peaceful coexistence must be preserved. Therefore, we urgently call on all stakeholders of the Egungun Festival to take immediate and firm action by cautioning and controlling all those involved in masquerade outings.”
“We particularly call the attention of the authorities and the public to the Ololu Masquerade Festival, which is scheduled to begin on Monday, 28th July 2025 in Ibadan. Based on multiple reports from concerned bodies, there is growing anxiety that this upcoming festivity might lead to further unrest.

“We hereby urge the Oyo State Government and relevant security agencies to act promptly and decisively to prevent any form of assault or intimidation by masqueraders. The safety and rights of all citizens regardless of their religion must be guaranteed.

“To our fellow Muslims across the state, we appeal for calm and restraint, as we await the necessary intervention and response from the authorities” It added .

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