Stop Causing Religious Tensions over Ekiti Mosque Demolition, Afenifere Warns MURIC

Afenifere, a leading Yoruba socio-political organization, has cautioned the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) to stop causing religious tensions following what it referred to as attempts to create religious tensions over the demolition of a mosque in the Ekiti State.

The controversial action has heated temperatures in the state, drawing religious and political connotations.

The aforesaid mosque, which is located within a petrol station at Ado Ekiti, was destroyed by the government of Ekiti State on the grounds that its siting was creating health hazards through potential exposure to radioactive emanations.

This came on the heels of a series of protests by the Muslim community within the region, who viewed the action as an infringement of their religious rights.

MURIC, a right advocacy organization, condemned the destruction in strong terms, terming it illegal and unconstitutional.

The group, led by Professor Ishaq Akintola, cautioned that the action had the potential to cause religious unrest and further widen divisions between the Muslim and Christian faithful in the state.

MURIC went further to threaten that it would make Ekiti ungovernable if demolitions continued, alleging the action was an insult to the Muslim people.

To such incidents, Afenifere issued a statement urging MURIC to re-think its steps. The Yoruba group observed the necessity to maintain religious harmony and peace, particularly in a state like Ekiti where there are various religious communities coexisting.

Afenifere’s leadership cautioned against provoking rhetoric that may turn the situation ugly, observing that such action may lead to further divisions and shatter the state’s unity.

Afenifere leader Yinka Odumakin also voiced concern regarding MURIC’s inciteful tone, that it would fuel unnecessary tensions.

He urged all parties involved, including the government of Ekiti State and the Muslim community, to desist from using provocative words and speaking to resolve the matter amicably.

The demolition of the mosque and the ensuing uproar in MURIC have helped to underscore the delicate nature of religious relations in Ekiti State, where Christians and Muslims have coexisted peacefully for decades.

The matter has sparked a broader debate on the protection of religious freedom, the role of the government in regulating places of worship, and tolerance for one another.