The Oyo State chapter of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on the state government and political stakeholders to accord greater respect to Chief Imams, stressing the need for harmony between public institutions and religious leaders.
The call was contained in a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the chapter, Barrister Lawal Abduwaheed, and the General Secretary, Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade, who emphasized the importance of recognising the religious and leadership roles of Islamic clerics in governance-related engagements.
The group noted that Chief Imams occupy highly revered positions within the Muslim community, serving as spiritual leaders, moral guides, and custodians of Islamic teachings. It stressed that their roles are central to the religious and ethical wellbeing of adherents and must be treated with dignity in all official engagements.
MURIC urged government officials and politicians across Oyo State to avoid scheduling official programmes during Friday Jumu’ah prayers, explained that such conflicts place undue pressure on Imams who are obligated to lead congregational worship.
The organisation also recommended that invitations to Chief Imams should be extended with at least one week’s notice, accompanied by formal communication, except in emergency situations.
According to the group, Imams should not be treated as mere ceremonial figures but recognised as respected religious authorities whose presence commands honour. It further called for proper arrangements to be made for their comfort at events, including considerations that align with their religious practices.
MURIC equally stressed the importance of dignified seating arrangements, urging that Chief Imams be seated in honourable positions and clearly separated from areas where alcohol is served, in order to preserve the sanctity of their office.
The group maintained that mutual respect between political actors and religious leaders is vital for fostering peaceful coexistence, social harmony, and an inclusive society.
