Ogun Muslim Leaders Condemn Plan to Return Schools to Missionaries
The League of Imams and Alfas in Ogun State has strongly criticized the state government's proposal to return public schools to missionary bodies, labeling the move as ill-advised, provocative, and unjustifiable. In a statement issued on Monday, the Muslim body vowed to resist the plan, emphasizing that it was made without proper consultation with religious groups and other stakeholders.
Governor's Announcement Sparks Controversy
Governor Dapo Abiodun recently announced during a meeting with Catholic officials, including the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Most Rev. Michael Crotty, that all missionary schools would be handed back to their original owners. He praised religious organizations for their contributions and stressed the importance of private sector partnerships in achieving government objectives. We will return all missionary schools to their owners. It is not in our policy to do it alone. We need to join hands with private individuals and we encourage further partnership with the church to expand development, Abiodun stated.
Muslim Body's Firm Opposition
Secretary General of the League of Imams and Alfas, Iman Tajudeen Adewunmi, faulted the proposal, arguing that it represents a gross misreading of history and undermines fairness, justice, and religious balance in Ogun State's diverse society. He pointed out that public schools were nationalized to prevent sectarian control, and reversing this process could lead to division and distrust. To reverse this process is to deliberately court division, deepen distrust, and destabilise the fragile harmony that has defined our state for decades, Adewunmi said.
Concerns Over Discrimination and Inclusivity
The League warned that the move appears discriminatory, prioritizing the interests of one religious group over the collective rights of all citizens. They urged the government to abandon the plan, insisting that it would be seen as unfair to non-Christian religions and a challenge to inclusive governance. We categorically reject institutions that were built, upgraded, and managed with the resources of all to sectarian control under any guise, Adewunmi added.
Threat of Coordinated Resistance
In a stern warning, the Muslim community stated that any attempt to proceed with the agenda without comprehensive consultation and equitable safeguards would face firm, coordinated, and lawful resistance. They emphasized their commitment to justice and the protection of their rights and contributions within the state.
