The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has urged Muslims in Osun State to be vigilant ahead of the 2026 governorship election, warned them against what it described as allowing Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State to “mock them a second time.”
In a press statement issued on Saturday, 13 June 2026, the Executive Director of MURIC, Professor Ishaq Akintola, called on Muslim voters in the state to critically evaluate the governor’s leadership record, particularly on issues relating to governance, political appointments, and religious representation.
According to the group, Governor Adeleke’s administration has been accused of marginalising Muslims in key political appointments. MURIC referenced its earlier 2023 position, in which it alleged that the composition of the state executive council reflected a religious imbalance, with more Christians than Muslims appointed as commissioners.
The organisation also revisited past criticisms it had made regarding the governor’s public conduct during religious occasions and accused him of engaging in actions it considered politically and religiously insensitive. These claims, however, remain part of MURIC’s perspective and have been subject to differing interpretations in public discourse.
Professor Akintola further cautioned Muslim voters to “open their eyes” and make informed political choices, stressing that leadership should be based on fairness, transparency, and equal treatment of all citizens regardless of religion. He urged voters to avoid what he described as emotional or symbolic political influence ahead of the polls.
The statement also raised concerns about governance and public accountability, referencing media reports alleging financial irregularities in the state, including payroll discrepancies, security vote expenditures, and overall spending.
MURIC maintained that its message was not an endorsement of any political party or candidate but a call for political awareness among Muslim voters in Osun State as the 2026 election approaches.
