9 hours ago
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The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC), Nigeria, has expressed concern over the reported suspension of a mosque construction project at Ede High School in Osun State, describing the move as a serious breach of religious freedom and due process.
In a statement signed by its Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor, and made available to DAILY POST, weekend, MPAC alleged that the halt was influenced by some persons despite the project having secured official approval from the Osun State Ministry of Education.
“This incident is not merely about a building. It is about whether the rule of law will be respected when it does not serve private interests.
“It is about whether the faith identity of Muslim students in public institutions can be dignified in the same manner others expect for themselves,” Kamor said.
The organization described Ede as a predominantly Muslim community and lamented what it views as persistent challenges faced by Muslim students in freely practicing their faith, including the right to communal worship.
MPAC warned that the suspension of the mosque project highlights a broader concern over the use of private influence to undermine the rights of minority groups.
The group called on Osun State governor, Ademola Adeleke, to intervene and ensure that construction resumes without further obstruction.
It also urged the Osun State Ministry of Education to uphold its prior approval and appealed to security agencies to investigate any intimidation or harassment linked to the project.
Additionally, MPAC also called on faith leaders and civic actors to publicly address the issue, emphasizing that the moment “demands moral clarity and courage.”
“Peace is not the absence of noise; it is the presence of justice,” Kamor added, urging the Ede Muslim community to remain calm but resolute in pursuing their constitutional rights.
MPAC reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful dialogue and legal advocacy, stressing that the mosque project is not only about constructing a building but about upholding justice and social equity.
