MURIC Issues 2027 Ultimatum Demanding Muslim Gubernatorial Candidates Across South West States to Secure Votes

MURIC warns political parties to field Muslim candidates in the South West or lose votes, citing marginalization in current state cabinet appointments.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 13, 2026, 5:01 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Sun Nigeria

Islamic Rights Group Demands Muslim Leadership in Yorubaland

The Muslim Rights Concern, an Islamic human rights organization, has formally warned political parties that their success in the South West during the 2027 general elections depends on the religious identity of their candidates. In a press statement released on April 12, 2026, the group's Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, asserted that political leadership in the region has been dominated by Christians since the last election cycle. The organization is now demanding that Muslim governors emerge in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Osun, while insisting on Muslim deputy governors in Ekiti and Ondo.

Allegations of Ruthless Marginalization in State Cabinets

Professor Akintola characterized the current distribution of political power in the South West as a total monopolization by Christian leaders. According to the organization, the existing cabinets in various states show a significant disparity in representation. For example, the group cited that in Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu appointed 43 Christian commissioners compared to 14 Muslims, while in Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun reportedly appointed 16 Christians and only 4 Muslims. Similar ratios were noted in Oyo and Osun, which MURIC describes as asymmetrical and unfair.

Economic Impacts of Political Exclusivity on Muslim Communities

The organization argues that this lack of representation has led to direct socio-economic deprivation for the Muslim population in the region. Professor Akintola noted that access to government patronage, including employment, health facilities, and the distribution of palliatives, often flows through government sources that are currently dominated by one faith group. The group maintains that South West Muslims have been at the receiving end of economic impoverishment and social deprivation over the last three years because they lack sufficient authorities within the inner circles of government.