The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has condemned recent allegations against the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, described them as Islamophobic and a calculated attempt to discredit the monarch.
In a statement issued on Friday, 29th August 2025, the Executive Director of MURIC, Professor Ishaq Akintola, said those behind the allegations of marijuana use against the monarch are “rebellious subjects, unscrupulous elements, mud-slingers and Muslim-haters.”
“It is Islamophobia. As the most outspoken Muslim traditional ruler in Yorubaland, the desire of Muslim-haters is to silence him. They use both mainstream and social media to commit their nefarious atrocities,” Akintola stated.
MURIC noted that the attacks amount to cyberbullying, contrary to Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015, warning that perpetrators may face legal sanctions if the smear campaign persists.
The group disclosed that its Osun State chapter has been directed to collaborate with progressive groups in Iwo to monitor defamatory publications and provocative comments targeting the Oluwo.
While congratulating the monarch on his recent victory at the Court of Appeal, MURIC urged him to remain focused on serving his people.
“MURIC will continue to stand up for Muslims who face persecution. To His Royal Highness, we say, keep up the good work and remain steadfast in your service to Allah, your subjects, and the Nigerian nation,” the statement read.
