Islam Facing Reputational Damage Under Tinubu – Datti Baba-Ahmed

Former Vice-Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has stirred fresh national debate after alleging that Islam’s global reputation is being negatively affected under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima.

Speaking at a political event organised by the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), chaired by Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, Datti described his remarks as “sensitive but necessary,” noting that such discussions often require courage in Nigeria’s political space.

“It’s not easy for me to say this… but it must be said,” he stated, adding that “the world of Islam has never suffered reputational damage as under Tinubu–Shettima presidency.”

According to him, many Muslim-led nations historically projected governance rooted in peace, justice, and stability, contrasting sharply with Nigeria’s current situation. While referencing past global leaders to support his argument, he maintained that his position was not about elevating religion above competence.

“This is not about religion,” Datti clarified. “If you are presenting religion, then present genuine candidates who will govern by the dictates of their faith.”

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He stressed that leadership credibility and accountability should take precedence, regardless of religious affiliation, insisting that both Christian and Muslim leaders must reflect authenticity and moral discipline.

MURIC Accuses FG of Religious Bias

In a related development, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has accused the Federal Government of religious favouritism, raising concerns over the reported construction of a N25 billion ecumenical church and pilgrimage centre at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

In a statement, MURIC’s Executive Director, Ishaq Akintola, criticised the move, questioning why a major Christian project is being supported at a public facility without a similar initiative for Muslim worshippers.

“The Federal Government should explain this preferential treatment. Nigerian Muslims deserve better than this,” Akintola said, noting that the development has sparked intense reactions across mosques and Muslim communities nationwide.

The group also faulted the Federal Government’s handling of humanitarian interventions, alleging unequal distribution of relief funds. It cited the reported N2 billion support to victims of violence in Plateau State, claiming there had been no equivalent assistance to victims in states such as Borno, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Kwara.

Growing Debate Over Religion and Governance in Nigeria

The twin developments have intensified ongoing conversations about religion in Nigerian politics, governance fairness, and national unity, particularly following the Muslim-Muslim ticket that brought the current administration to power.

Analysts say the statements reflect deeper concerns about representation, inclusiveness, and the role of religion in leadership selection as Nigeria prepares for future political alignments.

Islam Facing Reputational Damage Under Tinubu – Datti Baba-Ahmed

Cultists Storm Lagos Wedding, Kill Bride’s Father, Hypeman

A wedding celebration in Lagos State turned deadly on Saturday after suspected cultists stormed a reception venue and shot dead a bride’s father and a popular hypeman identified as Victor in the Ikotun area.

The incident reportedly occurred on Governor’s Road, Oviawe Street, shortly after the wedding ceremony had ended and guests had moved to an after-party event.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers arrived suddenly and opened fire indiscriminately, causing guests to flee in panic. The hypeman, Victor, was said to have been entertaining guests when the gunmen invaded the venue.

A resident identified as Tosin said the attackers immediately targeted Victor, dragging him outside before assaulting him with weapons.

“They went straight to Victor, dragged him outside and started beating him with dangerous weapons,” he said.

Another witness said the bride’s father was killed while attempting to intervene and plead for Victor’s life.

“When the gunmen were beating Victor, the bride’s father rushed to intervene. They shot both of them. They died on the spot,” the source said.

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The attack reportedly caused chaos across the community, with residents and business owners rushing indoors as gunshots rang out. The violence is believed to have occurred during a crowded celebration, making escape difficult for many guests.

Locals suggested the incident may not have been directly linked to the wedding itself but could be connected to ongoing cult-related violence in the Ikotun area, which has experienced repeated clashes between rival groups in recent months.

Another resident, who identified Victor as a familiar figure in the community, described him as a well-known entertainer who regularly performed at local events.

Police spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command confirmed that an investigation has begun and that the case would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, for further probe.

“The matter is being investigated; it will be transferred to the SCID today unfailingly,” the spokesperson said.

Authorities say efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the suspects involved, while security has been stepped up in the area following the attack.

The incident adds to growing concerns over cult violence in Lagos communities, where rival groups have increasingly disrupted public gatherings and residential areas, raising fears over civilian safety during social events.

Cultists Storm Lagos Wedding, Kill Bride’s Father, Hypeman

2026 Hajj: First Batch of 315 Oyo State Pilgrims Arrive in Medina 

The first batch of 315 intending pilgrims from Oyo State has arrived safely in Medina, Saudi Arabia, to commence the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, marking the official start of the state’s participation in this year’s spiritual exercise.

The pilgrims departed Nigeria on Monday from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and landed at about 9:00 a.m. local time at the Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina aboard an Air Peace flight.

Their arrival signals the beginning of their religious journey, as they settle in the holy city ahead of further movement to Mecca for the core Hajj rites, including key spiritual obligations such as Tawaf and the pilgrimage to Arafat.

The delegation was accompanied by senior officials of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board, including Alhaji Rasheed Yusuf Olayiwola Biznillah, Alhaji Amusat Ayuba Agboola, Alhaji (Imam) AbdulMajeed Olanase, Alhaji Daud Bolaji Afolabi, Alhaji Abdulrahmon Bakare Agbotomokekere, and the Board Secretary, Mr. Kamorudeen Babatunde Fasasi.

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Officials confirmed that the entire journey—from departure in Lagos to arrival in Medina—was conducted in an orderly and well-coordinated manner, with strict adherence to aviation and pilgrimage protocols.

Speaking prior to departure in Lagos on behalf of the Board Chairman, Sheikh Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, JP, Mr. Fasasi assured pilgrims of a smooth and well-organised pilgrimage experience. He noted that adequate logistical, welfare, and spiritual arrangements had been put in place to ensure a safe and rewarding 2026 Hajj exercise.

He also addressed concerns raised by some pilgrims, stating that all necessary preparations had been completed to support their comfort and religious fulfilment throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.

Fasasi further disclosed that pilgrims who paid above the approved official Hajj fare for the 2026 exercise would receive refunds in line with government-approved guidelines, a move aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in the pilgrimage process.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), which oversees the coordination of Nigerian pilgrims, continues to work with state pilgrim welfare boards to ensure smooth transportation, accommodation, and welfare services for all intending pilgrims.

The Hajj pilgrimage remains one of the largest annual religious gatherings in the world, drawing millions of Muslims to Saudi Arabia each year. Nigeria consistently contributes one of the largest contingents to the global pilgrimage, with thousands expected to participate in the 2026 exercise.

More batches of pilgrims from Nigeria are expected to arrive in the coming days as preparations intensify for the commencement of full Hajj rites in the holy cities of Medina and Mecca.

2026 Hajj: First Batch of 315 Oyo State Pilgrims Arrive in Medina