In a press release issued on Wednesday, the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) expressed deep sadness and outrage over the recent attack perpetrated by members of the Oro cult on a congregation of Muslims at Idi Omo Mosque in Ile Ife.
The attack resulted in multiple life-threatening injuries to the peaceful worshippers and serves as a reminder of the dangers of religious intolerance and the urgent need to protect the rights of individuals to freedom of religion.
The press release, which was signed by the executive Secretary/CEO of MUSWEN, Prof. Muslih ‘Tayo Yahya, called on the government, His Royal Majesty the Oni of Ife and all relevant authorities to investigate this matter and bring the perpetrators to justice.
It further urged the government to take concrete measures to ensure that such events are not repeated and that the safety and security of religious groups, no matter how few, are effectively safeguarded.
The press release expressed deep concern over the increasing incidents of religious intolerance and violence and called on everyone to speak up against such acts of violence and hatred and to defend religious freedom and tolerance.
It also called on the affected community and the entire Muslim Ummah to remain calm and shun any temptation to retaliation.
The statement concluded by urging everyone to work together to create a society in which people of all faiths and beliefs are respected and in which everyone is free to practice their faith without molestation.