The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria, MUSWEN, the apex Islamic body representing Yoruba Muslims, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his achievements in his first two years in office.
But the group also expressed deep concern over what it described as the continued marginalisation of Muslims from the South West in federal political appointments under the current administration.
In a press statement released on Tuesday and jointly signed by its President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, and Executive Secretary, Prof. Muslih ‘Tayo Yahya, MUSWEN praised Tinubu’s reforms in key sectors, including the economy, infrastructure, and national security. The group said these efforts had begun to yield tangible results despite Nigeria’s numerous challenges.
“We acknowledge the president’s commitment to steering Nigeria toward sustainable growth and development despite the complex challenges inherited,” the statement read. “It gladdens our hearts to notice that the president’s reform effort has started bearing fruit despite strident opposition criticism.”
Despite this commendation, the group raised alarm over what it described as a pattern of exclusion of South West Muslims from federal appointments, stressing that the situation does not reflect the demographic and intellectual contributions of Yoruba Muslims to national development.
“The South West region, a critical hub of intellectual, economic, and cultural significance, is home to a vibrant Muslim community that has consistently contributed to the nation’s progress,” MUSWEN stated. “Regrettably, the representation of South West Muslims in key federal positions does not reflect this reality.”
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The group cited Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates equitable representation across regions and groups in federal appointments. MUSWEN noted recent reports from the presidency indicating that nearly 70 per cent of appointments so far had gone to Christians, a development it believes effectively sidelines Muslims in the region.
“The unsaid fact in this revelation is that Muslims in Southern Nigeria have been practically shut out of consideration for appointments, big or small,” the group said.
While acknowledging recent attempts by the Tinubu administration to address broader regional imbalances, MUSWEN urged the president to take “deliberate and corrective measures” to ensure fair representation for South West Muslims in the composition of federal boards, agencies, ministries, and parastatals.
The group emphasized that inclusivity in governance is essential to fostering national unity, trust, and belonging among all ethnic and religious groups.
MUSWEN called on President Tinubu to engage directly with stakeholders from the South West Muslim community to address their concerns, warning that continued exclusion may weaken support for the administration in the region.
Despite the criticism, MUSWEN reaffirmed its support for the Tinubu administration, pledging continued cooperation and prayers for the success of the government.
“We believe that President Tinubu, as a leader known for his responsiveness to constructive criticism, will take decisive action to correct this imbalance. We also urge the government to sustain its efforts in tackling insecurity, reducing corruption, and promoting economic stability.”
“May Allah guide President Tinubu and grant him the wisdom to lead Nigeria to greater heights,” the statement concluded.
Crediblenewsng.com
