OSUN ELECTION: For marginalizing Muslims, MURIC says “Don’t vote for Adeleke”
By KEMI KASUMU
According to Akintola, the governor’s administration did not reflect the religious demographics of the state in key political appointments. He referenced a previous MURIC statement issued in July 2023, in which the organisation criticised the composition of the Osun State Executive Council, claiming that Christians were disproportionately represented in commissioner appointments compared to Muslims.
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on Muslims in Osun State to carefully assess the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke ahead of the forthcoming gubernatorial election, alleging that the governor failed to adequately represent Muslim interests during his tenure.
In a statement issued on Saturday, June 13, 2026, MURIC’s Founder and Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, accused Governor Adeleke of politically marginalising Muslims despite presenting himself as a member of the faith.
According to Akintola, the governor’s administration did not reflect the religious demographics of the state in key political appointments. He referenced a previous MURIC statement issued in July 2023, in which the organisation criticised the composition of the Osun State Executive Council, claiming that Christians were disproportionately represented in commissioner appointments compared to Muslims.
The Islamic advocacy group argued that the appointment pattern contradicted the expectations of many Muslim supporters who had backed Adeleke’s election campaign.
MURIC also revisited controversies surrounding the governor’s attendance at Eid celebrations, alleging that his actions at Muslim prayer grounds were politically motivated and designed to court public approval rather than demonstrate genuine commitment to Muslim interests.
Beyond religious representation, the organisation raised concerns about the governor’s financial management record. Akintola cited reports alleging discrepancies in the state’s payroll system amounting to ₦13.7 billion, as well as claims regarding the handling of security vote expenditures and overall government spending during Adeleke’s administration.
The group said unresolved questions surrounding public expenditure under the current administration should be considered by voters as they prepare to elect a governor for another four-year term.
“As another gubernatorial election approaches, Muslims in Osun State must reflect deeply on whether they can entrust their mandate to Governor Adeleke for another term,” Akintola stated.
MURIC further argued that Muslims in Osun State should support political leaders who openly identify with their faith while remaining committed to fairness and equal treatment of all citizens, regardless of religious affiliation.
The organisation maintained that its intervention was not an endorsement of any political candidate but rather an effort to encourage political awareness among Muslim voters.
“We are not campaigning for anybody, nor are we demarketing anyone,” the statement said. “We are merely revisiting history and encouraging Muslims to make informed decisions.”
The remarks come as political activities intensify ahead of the 2026 Osun State governorship election, with parties and interest groups increasingly seeking to influence voter opinion across the state.
Governor Adeleke and his supporters have previously rejected allegations of religious bias and have maintained that appointments in his administration are based on competence, inclusiveness and the overall interests of the state.
The latest statement by MURIC is expected to generate renewed debate over issues of religious representation, governance and accountability as the election season gathers momentum in Osun State.
