The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has reaffirmed its non-partisan stance amid political developments in Ogun State, as preparations intensify for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The organization made the clarification following a congratulatory message issued by its Ogun State branch after the emergence of Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) as the consensus governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a rejoinder dated April 16, 2026, and signed by its Executive Director, Ishaq Akintola, MURIC acknowledged an “administrative glitch” at its headquarters, which it said led to concerns over the tone of the Ogun branch’s message.
Akintola explained that while the state chapter followed due process, a temporary delegation of roles at the national level resulted in what he described as an “administrative skip.” He accepted full responsibility and issued an apology to stakeholders, including political parties and aspirants who may have felt slighted by the statement.
“We assure all stakeholders that MURIC is sensitive to the feelings of all aspirants regardless of their political leanings,” the statement read, emphasizing that the group does not endorse political candidates.
Despite the incident, MURIC reiterated its broader advocacy for increased Muslim representation in political leadership, urging parties in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Osun states to consider Muslim gubernatorial candidates, while suggesting that Ekiti and Ondo states offer deputy governorship slots to Muslims.
The organization, however, stressed that its advocacy should not be misconstrued as partisan alignment.
“MURIC is not a political body,” Akintola stated. “We reserve the right to promote and protect the interests of Nigerian Muslims, but we must not be seen to tilt towards any particular political party.”
He further clarified that congratulatory messages should be viewed strictly as expressions of goodwill rather than endorsements, adding that other political parties in Ogun State remained free to field their candidates without any perceived bias from the group.
The statement came amid heightened political activity across states as parties begin internal processes ahead of the 2027 elections.
