By Ayobami Ife, Abeokuta
The League of Imams and Alfas in Ogun State has strongly opposed the state government’s proposed plan to return public schools to missionary bodies, describing the move as provocative, discriminatory, and capable of undermining religious harmony.
In a rejoinder issued on Monday, the Islamic body said the policy represents a “gross misreading of history” and a dangerous step that could erode the principles of equity and justice in the state’s plural society.
The rejoinder was signed by the Secretary General of the League, Imam Tajudeen Mustafa Adewunmi.
The League argued that public schools were originally nationalised to eliminate sectarian control and ensure inclusiveness, warning that reversing such a policy could reignite division and deepen distrust among religious groups.
“This policy is not only unjustifiable but also a direct affront to the balance that has sustained peaceful coexistence in Ogun State for decades,” the statement read.
The group further alleged that the move signals a bias towards a particular religious bloc at the expense of others, stressing that such an approach is both unjust and politically risky.
It maintained that the Muslim community, described as a significant and historically rooted population in the state, would not accept any attempt to transfer public institutions built with collective resources to religious organisations.
The League, therefore, called for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the policy, warning that failure to do so would be seen as a deliberate disregard for fairness and inclusive governance.
It also cautioned that any attempt to push through the plan without broad consultation and safeguards would attract “firm, coordinated and lawful resistance” from stakeholders.
“Government exists to unite, not to divide. Ogun State must not be dragged backwards into an era of exclusion and sectarian dominance,” the statement added.
