Members of the Lagos Muslim Community, unified under a collective banner, have initiated a protest to express their concerns regarding perceived official marginalization within the list of commissioner-designates presented to the state House of Assembly by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
As per the purported details of the list disclosed by Governor Sanwo-Olu, it appears that there are eight Muslim nominees and thirty-one Christian nominees for the position of commissioner.
In a visible display of solidarity, hundreds of Muslims convened at the state’s assembly complex early on Wednesday. The gathering included prominent figures from diverse Islamic organizations and scholarly circles, as well as other faithful Muslims. They carried placards bearing the message “MUSLIMS SAY NO TO OFFICIAL DISCRIMINATION.”
During the event, Professor Tajudeen G.O. Gbadamosi, President of the Muslim Community of Lagos State, addressed the sizable crowd of Muslim protesters, presenting a petition that was subsequently submitted to the lawmakers.
Among the noteworthy figures present were Sheikh AbdurRahman Ahmad, Convener of the Joint Muslim Forum (JMF); Lukmon Olumo, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA); Mojeed Fatai Adebola, Chief Whip and Chairman of the Commissioners-Nominee Screening Committee; Jubreel AbdulKareem, another LAHA member; and Prof Lakin Akintola, Director of MURIC.
The petition, titled “Petition on the Discrimination against Muslims in the Nomination of Commissioners,” strongly articulated their discontent. It read, “We are gathered here today to express our grievance and dissatisfaction with the clear lack of justice, equity, and fairness evident in the proposed Lagos State Executive cabinet. This is evident in the list of commissioner nominees submitted by Governor Sanwo-Olu for your scrutiny and approval.”
The petition elaborated on the perceived disparity, stating, “Out of the 31 nominees, a mere eight (8) are Muslims, while the remaining 31 are Christians. This pattern of marginalization and religious bias is not a new occurrence, particularly since Governor Sanwo-Olu’s assumption of leadership in the state. In fact, it has evolved into an official state policy to disregard the rightful positions of Muslims within the Sanwo-Olu administration.”
The document cited several instances of perceived inequality, including previous appointments, and underlined the violation of constitutional principles. It argued that the current list contradicts the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, specifically Sections 14(4) and 192(2), which emphasize the importance of recognizing diversity and promoting a sense of belonging and loyalty among all citizens.
The petition also highlighted a call for a more representative cabinet, proposing that a fresh list should reflect a 60% representation of Muslims. It drew parallels with a similar action taken by the Niger State House of Assembly in addressing issues of fairness and equity.
In conclusion, the petition stated, “We believe that this is essential for the future stability and prosperity of Lagos State,” appealing to the assembly to reconsider the nominees and uphold principles of diversity and inclusivity.
