Islamic clerics in Ogun State have told governors in the South West States, as well as security agencies to call the adherents of traditional religions to order.
This, the clerics said, became important to forestall religious crises in the region.
The religious leaders, under the aegis of the League of Imams and Alfas in Ogun, made the call during a meeting held at the Egba Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta.
The meeting, which was presided over by the President of the league, Sikirullahi Babalola also discussed key issues affecting the well-being of Muslims in Nigeria.
In a communique released after the meeting, the Islamic leaders lamented what they called “the incessant attacks on Muslims by traditionalists performing their rites.”
According to them, Muslims in the South West “will not condone any form of infringement on their rights to perform their spiritual obligations.”
The clerics maintained that Muslims in the South West “will not apply force on any person by any means whatsoever on account of religious belief,” stating, however, that the rights of Muslims should also not be infringed upon by anybody or group.
They emphasised that, “the recurrent attacks on Muslims going for worship in the mosques during the day when traditionalists had placed a ‘stay at home’ order because of some rituals during the day is ever fresh in our memory.
“Furthermore, the recent threat by adherents of traditional religion against Muslims is condemnable and should not be taken lightly.”
They called on the governors and security agencies to wade into the matter by calling traditionalists to order.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, as well as police commissioners in the region are, therefore, “put on notice regarding this ugly development” to ensure peaceful coexistence in Yoruba land.
“Islam is a religion of peace and Muslims are bearers of peace; we are Yorubas and are not strangers in our land. We urge Muslims to continue to live in peace and unity with adherents of other religions,” the clerics submitted.
Meanwhile, the clerics have called on President Bola Tinubu to investigate the fuel subsidy era and prosecute whoever is found guilty of corrupt practices.
