The Osun State chapter of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has strongly condemned the reported disruption of a mosque construction project at Ede Senior High School by members of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, Ede.
In a statement issued on Sunday, July 13, 2025, and signed by the Chairman of MURIC in Osun State, Dr. Abdul Razaq Bolawaye Uthman, the group alleged that the church, led by a former principal of the school, Mr. Osundina, forcefully halted construction work on the mosque on Friday, July 12, 2025.
The statement further alleged that the action was carried out with the backing of prominent businessman and philanthropist, Dr. Deji Adeleke, who reportedly placed a personal call in support of the disruption.
“Our attention has been drawn to an ugly incident which occurred in Ede, Osun State, capable of breaching public peace. The construction of a mosque at Ede Senior High School was forcefully and illegally stopped by members of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, led by Mr. Osundina,” Dr. Uthman stated.
According to MURIC, the mosque project had received official approval from the Osun State Ministry of Education via a letter referenced P.PRY/390T/58 and dated June 11, 2025.
“It is illegal for any private individual or group to stop a government-approved project without due process. The action taken was driven by religious intolerance and poses a serious threat to peaceful coexistence in the state,” the statement read.
MURIC noted that Ede Senior High School is a public institution owned by the government and the community, and not by any religious organization. The group described the claim of land ownership by the church as unfounded, emphasizing that the school serves students of various religious backgrounds.
Dr. Uthman expressed concern that the interference by Dr. Adeleke, a prominent figure in the community, could escalate tensions if not swiftly addressed.
“Dr. Adeleke should be reminded that this is not Adeleke University where students are reportedly compelled to attend Christian chapel services regardless of their faith. Ede Senior High School is a public school where the rights of all students must be protected,” he added.
Citing Section 38 of the Nigerian Constitution which guarantees freedom of religion and prohibits religious imposition, MURIC warned against any attempt to deny Muslim students their right to worship.
The organization called on the Muslim Council of Ede, state authorities, and other stakeholders to intervene urgently to prevent the matter from escalating into a full-blown religious crisis.
“MURIC urges the peace-loving Muslims of Ede to remain law-abiding as we engage with the relevant authorities to ensure justice is served. We also appeal to the Osun State Government and relevant federal bodies to uphold the rule of law and ensure that the mosque project continues without further hindrance,” the statement concluded.
