MURIC Backs Egba Imams’ Call for Inclusive Leadership in Ogun 2027 Governorship Race

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Ogun State Chapter, has commended the Egba Muslim clerics under the umbrella of Raabitotul Aimmata Wal-Ulamaa of Nigeria for what it described as a courageous and principled stance against the perceived political marginalisation of Muslims in the state.

In a statement issued on Monday by the State Chairman, Ustaadh Tajudeen Jimoh Alao, and made public by the State Secretary, Ambassador Olaleye Rasheed Damilare, the group praised the intervention of the Egba Chief Imams, noting that their position represents “a historic awakening and a moral compass for justice, equity, and inclusive governance.”

MURIC aligned itself with the communiqué released by the Egba Imams led by the Grand Chief Imam of Egbaland, Sheikh Saadallah Bamigbola, which raised concerns over what it described as an imbalance in political leadership in Ogun State since its creation.

The Islamic advocacy group noted that for over five decades, Muslims in the state, despite their population and contributions, have largely been excluded from occupying the highest executive office.

According to the statement, “this reality calls not for division, but for deliberate correction anchored on fairness, justice, and mutual respect.”

MURIC therefore threw its weight behind calls for equity in the 2027 governorship election, urging political parties to consider competent Muslim candidates across party lines. It also advocated for a peaceful and inclusive political structure that reflects the state’s diversity.

The group further applauded the decision of the Egba Imams to embark on grassroots mobilisation and civic sensitisation, describing it as a vital democratic process aimed at ensuring fairness and justice.

MURIC paid tribute to prominent Islamic scholars in Egbaland, including Sheikh Bamigbola and other chief imams across the region, for their commitment to truth and refusal to compromise their values.

It stressed that the advocacy for balanced representation should not be misconstrued as a call for religious conflict, but rather a genuine appeal for justice, unity, and inclusiveness among all religious and ethnic groups in Ogun State.

“As Ogun State approaches another electoral cycle, all stakeholders must rise above bias and embrace fairness as the foundation for sustainable peace and development,” the statement added.

The development comes amid growing political conversations ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State, with increasing calls from various groups for broader representation in leadership.

MURIC Backs Egba Imams’ Call for Inclusive Leadership in Ogun 2027 Governorship Race

Nigerian Army Neutralises 65 Bandits in Major Zamfara Offensive

The Nigerian Army has announced the killing of no fewer than 65 armed bandits during a major military operation in Zamfara State, as security forces intensify efforts to curb persistent violence in the country’s troubled northwest.

According to military authorities, the operation targeted several bandit enclaves in remote parts of the state, long considered safe havens for criminal groups responsible for kidnappings, cattle rustling, and deadly attacks on rural communities. The offensive, carried out by ground troops with support from aerial surveillance, was described as one of the most decisive strikes against bandit networks in recent months.

A statement from the Army indicated that the troops engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle, overpowering them and inflicting heavy casualties. The military said the operation forms part of ongoing coordinated campaigns aimed at dismantling bandit strongholds and restoring peace to affected areas.

Security analysts say the northwest region of Nigeria has, in recent years, witnessed a surge in armed violence driven by loosely organised criminal gangs commonly referred to as bandits. Unlike insurgent groups with ideological motives, these gangs are primarily motivated by profit, often targeting villages, schools, and highways for ransom operations.

Residents in parts of Zamfara State have repeatedly borne the brunt of such attacks, with many communities displaced and livelihoods disrupted. The latest military success is expected to bring some relief, although concerns remain about the ability of security forces to sustain long-term stability in the region.

The Nigerian military has in recent months stepped up offensives across the northwest, combining intelligence-led operations with aerial bombardments of suspected hideouts. Officials maintain that these efforts are yielding positive results, pointing to increased neutralisation of criminal elements and the rescue of kidnapped victims in separate operations.

However, experts caution that while military action is crucial, a lasting solution will require a broader approach, including improved policing, community engagement, and addressing underlying socio-economic challenges that fuel insecurity.

The Army reaffirmed its commitment to continuing operations until all criminal groups are dismantled, urging residents to support security agencies with timely and credible information.

Nigerian Army Neutralises 65 Bandits in Major Zamfara Offensive

Oyebamiji Offers Scholarships to Children of Osogbo Rainstorm Victim

Osogbo, Osun State — The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, has announced full educational scholarships up to university level for the four children of a woman who died during a recent rainstorm in Osogbo.

Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, made the declaration on Sunday during a condolence visit to the family of the late Jemilat Ganiyu, who lost her life in the devastating storm that struck the Osun State capital last week.

The APC candidate also directed the immediate opening of a special bank account for the children, through which he pledged to provide consistent financial support for their education from primary school through tertiary level.

The beneficiaries include Tijani Faruk, a Junior Secondary School 2 student; Tijani Mariam, a Senior Secondary School 2 student; Tijani Fatimah, currently in SS3; and Tijani Haliah, a Primary 6 pupil.

Speaking during the visit, Oyebamiji expressed sadness over the tragic incident, noting that death remains an inevitable end for all mortals. He extended his condolences to the bereaved family, particularly the parents of the deceased, and prayed for strength to bear the loss.

In addition to the condolence visit, Oyebamiji also visited victims of the rainstorm receiving treatment at the Osun State University Teaching Hospital. He offered prayers for their quick recovery and made financial donations to support their treatment.

He further instructed his aides to document the details of a critically ill patient whose parents sought his assistance during the hospital visit.

Members of the deceased’s family commended Oyebamiji for his gesture, offering prayers for his success in the forthcoming governorship election.

The APC candidate was accompanied by several party leaders and associates, including former and serving public office holders, during the visits.

Oyebamiji Offers Scholarships to Children of Osogbo Rainstorm Victim