Members under the aegis of the Osun State Muslim Community (OSMC) have called on the Police to demand justice over the masquerade attacked on Muslims who were praying at Qamarudeen Mosque Ita Olookan in Osogbo, Osun State
The attack reportedly resulted in the death of Alhaji Alfa Moshood Salahudeen, leader of the Muslim group and 14 others were injured in process.
According to a statement jointly signed by the President of OSMC, Alhaji Mustafa Olawuyi, and the General Secretary, Alhaj Hashim Olapade, the community identified Kayode Esuleke the man who led the attack, and must as such, face the full course of the law.
Olawuyi in the statement warned that although Islam is a religion that preaches peace and tolerance of other religions, the patience and tolerance of Muslims in the state should not be allowed to reach the elastic limit before security agencies would take necessary steps.
He however also noted that Esuleke, who is a Chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state, was boasting that he cannot be prosecuted because of his connection with the state government.
The statement reads “Islam preaches peace and tolerance of other faiths, but this has been taken for granted by the Egungun worshipers for them to have the audacity of attacking a mosque during prayers.”
“Unfortunately, there are very strong rumours that the leadership of the perpetrators of the dastardly act and their backers are going and boasting about that the case is just a child’s play that will soon be swept under the carpet.”
“Osun State Muslim Community believes in justice, thus requesting the law enforcement agents handling the case to do the needful and ensure justice takes its due cause without delay.”
“While we ensure to do all things possible to reinforce peaceful co-existence by all and sundry, including all religious groups in the State, we demand prompt justice on this volatile issue as some people believe they are untouchable because of connections in high places”, Olawuyi said.
The Muslim community however, commends the state governor, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, for his timely intervention in ensuring treatment of those injured.
