THE Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has commended Governors Ademola Adeleke and Seyi Makinde of Osun and Oyo states respectively for declaring Hijrah holiday on Wednesday.
The group called on other states in the South West to emulate Osun and Oyo in showing respect for millions of adherents of the Islamic faith living in their states.
MURIC, in a statement by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, said: “We commend both governors for making this declaration. In particular, we appreciate Governor Makinde’s remarks which were contained in his pronouncement of the Hijrah holiday about ‘dedication to promoting inclusivity and celebrating religious diversity’ as well as ‘Oyo State’s commitment to upholding religious rights and beliefs of all citizens’.
“There will be greater inter-religious harmony if leaders give recognition to the faith of others and respect cultural diversity.”
The organisation advised states in the South West which did not declare the Hijrah holiday – Lagos, Ogun, Ondo and Ekiti – to toe the line of Osun and Oyo states.
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