The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has opposed Babatunde Sanwo-Olu’s second term bid as Governor of Lagos state, stating it is the time for a Muslim to rule.
This was confirmed in a statement released on Monday by Professor Ishaq Akintola, Director, Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC).
The ruling party, All Progressives Congress (APC), endorsed the Governor of the State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for a second term bid ahead of the 2023 gubernatorial election.
MURIC, in their defence, disclosed that the endorsement violated a long-standing unwritten rule on rotational governance between Christians and Muslims in Lagos State.
He believed that the Christians had their two terms, and it is the turn of Muslims to produce the state governor in 2023.
The statement read, “It is on record that ex-Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, a Christian, spent four years in office and another Christian, Babajide Sanwo-Olu was brought in ostensibly to complete the Christians’ two terms which expire by May 2023 when a Muslim, ceteris paribus, is expected to take over the reins of office.
“That is why Muslims in Lagos State regard the recent endorsement given to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to run for the Christians’ third term as unfair, unjust and provocative. It may not be known in official circles, but Lagos Muslims are grumbling and we have been under pressure for some time now to speak up.
“Lagos Muslims are taxpayers and key stakeholders in issues affecting the welfare of Lagos citizens. We must, therefore, be consulted on matters of governance.
“We refuse to be blindfolded on the way to the polling booth. Neither shall we be satisfied just as voters, we must also be voted for. That is the essence of democracy. It must be participatory. The choice of candidates and leadership must not be lopsided in a democracy. Every segment of society must be consulted.”