The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on the Ondo State Police Command to swiftly arrest and prosecute individuals who reportedly attacked an Islamic cleric and his family members in Oke Agbe, Ondo State.
The call follows a recent incident in which suspected traditionalists, disguised as masquerades, allegedly stormed the mosque and residence of Imam Muhammed Hussain Jegede Taqweem on Thursday, June 12, 2025. The attack reportedly left the Imam’s wife and children injured.
In a statement in Sunday, MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, condemned the act and demanded urgent police action.
“We frown at the delay in arresting the culprits. The suspects must be arrested first before diplomatic moves can start. Meetings convened by traditionalists at this time are designed to extenuate the offence. They want to mull police action as if they are above the law. It is sheer impunity,” Akintola stated.
According to MURIC, the attackers include Ajayi Odunayo Smart (popularly known as Ijoba), Balogun Adewale (Chief Olisa), and Adeosun Leke (a.k.a. C Leke).
The group specifically accused Smart of initiating the assault by flogging the Imam’s son, prompting others to join in the violent act.
Professor Akintola stressed that the failure to arrest the suspects could embolden similar future attacks and undermine justice.
He also criticized the silence of local authorities, including traditional institutions, over the matter.
“Neither the king nor the Oba-in-Council is addressing the issue of justice, and we are certain that the attack will be repeated again unless they are taught a lesson,” he warned.
MURIC insisted that the law must be allowed to take its full course, emphasizing that no group or individual is above the law.
“This attack must not be treated with levity. Arresting and prosecuting the suspects will act as a deterrent,” the statement concluded.
