Two top Islamic organisations in Nigeria, the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) and the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), have strongly condemned a violent attack on an Imam in Ogbomoso, Oyo State. The attack, carried out by a masquerader identified as Lobanika, occurred on Friday, July 25, 2025.

In addition to the Imam, another Muslim individual was also attacked with a cutlass at Oṣaro Market during the same incident. The two organisations described the act as both violent and deeply disrespectful to Islamic traditions and human dignity.

MPAC's Executive Chairman, Malam Disu Kamor, said the incident reflects a disturbing pattern of lawlessness disguised as cultural expression. He explained that the Imam, who was peacefully standing by the roadside, was assaulted without provocation — the masquerader knocked off his cap, a serious insult in Islamic practice.

Mal. Disu stressed that such an act is a violation of constitutional rights, including freedom of religion, dignity of the human person, and public safety. He called on Nigerian law enforcement to decisively address these violations and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

He also cited the alarming conduct of the Oloolu masquerade group in Ibadan, which recently declared areas off-limits to women and imposed a strict dress code for men during its upcoming festival. He described this move as "dangerously authoritarian" and entirely unconstitutional.

MPAC maintained that no cultural, religious, or traditional group has the right to suspend citizens' constitutional freedoms. It called on the Nigeria Police Force and Oyo State Government to investigate and prosecute the masquerader and others involved in the attack.

The organisation urged immediate regulation of masquerade festivals to ensure they conform with the Nigerian Constitution and protect the rights and safety of all residents, regardless of faith or background.

Meanwhile, MURIC's Director, Professor Lakin Akintola, also condemned the masquerade's actions, calling them criminal, absurd, and completely unacceptable. He confirmed that the same individual assaulted both the Imam and another Muslim man with a weapon.

MURIC warned against any possible retaliation by Muslims in Ogbomoso, advising them to remain calm. "Two wrongs do not make a right," the organisation said, appealing for patience while calling on the authorities to act quickly.

Both MPAC and MURIC reaffirmed their dedication to peaceful coexistence, religious freedom, and the rule of law. They concluded by urging Nigerian authorities to put an end to such cultural impunity and ensure justice is served without delay.

Source: https://muslimnews.com.ng/2025/08/02/mpac-muric-strongly-condemn-masquerade-attack-on-muslim-demand-swift-justice/