The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has faulted Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State over the alleged appointment of an “all-Christian” set of permanent secretaries, otherwise referred to as tutor generals, in the state.
The allegation was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Founder and Executive Director of MURIC, Professor Ishaq Akintola, who accused the governor of religious imbalance, administrative exclusivity, and disregard for constitutional provisions.
According to the group, the nine new tutor generals announced on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, in a circular released by the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, failed to reflect the religious diversity of Lagos State.
“The list has ignited widespread discontent among Muslims in the state and beyond for lacking religious balance. In particular, there are allegations that even the few Muslim names on the list belong to those who have left the Islamic faith,” the statement read in part.
Citing Section 14(4) of the 1999 Constitution, MURIC argued that the appointments did not promote inclusivity or a sense of belonging among all citizens.
“Does the appointment of six Christian tutor generals into all six education districts ‘recognise the diversity of the people’ of Lagos State? Are Muslims not major stakeholders in the affairs of Lagos State or are we just ordinary dots in Lagos social statistics?” Akintola queried.
The group also referenced past concerns on alleged underrepresentation of Muslims in Sanwo-Olu’s commissioner nominations, noting that out of 57 commissioners, only 14 were Muslims while 43 were Christians.
MURIC maintained that democracy thrives on accountability, urging the governor to provide clarifications on the appointments. It further warned that Lagos Muslims may have to seek alternative political alliances if the perceived trend of marginalisation continues.
