The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC), Nigeria has condemned the assault on a Muslim Imam in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, by a masquerader known as Lobanika, who, with brazen disregard for civil norms and individual rights, struck off the Imam’s cap in public.
In a statement, MPAC’s executive chairman, Disu Kamor, noted that the assault occurred despite the Imam maintaining a calm and respectful posture as the procession passed, taking no action that could be deemed provocative.
MPAC said, the disturbing incident is not an isolated case, but “follows a growing pattern of cultural impunity and aggression, most recently evidenced by a public announcement issued by the Oloolu masquerade group in Ibadan, which warned women to stay off designated areas and imposed a compulsory dress code on all men within the vicinity of its procession.
“The declarations of suspension of freedom of movement and imposition of a dress code on the general public are not only unconstitutional but dangerously authoritarian.
“No group – cultural, traditional or religious – has the authority to suspend or curtail the rights of Nigerian citizens under any guise.
“The Nigerian constitution guarantees the freedom of movement, association and religious expression to all Nigerians irrespective of gender, faith or ethnicity. The right to celebrate cultural heritage does not grant anyone the right to intimidate, harass or violate the dignity of others.
“The violent act of forcibly removing an Imam’s cap – an important symbol of modesty and religious identity – is a calculated provocation. It reflects an alarming erosion of lawful coexistence and the failure of authorities to check growing lawlessness disguised as culture.”
As an Islamic advocacy organisation, MPAC declared that no Nigerian citizen or community should live under fear of being harassed or assaulted by masquerade groups or cultural fanatics.
“The Muslim population in Oyo State and across Nigeria is entitled to full constitutional protection, to live peacefully and practice their religion without intimidation,” it added.
It, therefore demanded an immediate investigation by the Nigeria Police Force into the Ogbomoso assault and the prompt prosecution of Lobanika and any accomplices.
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