2023: Governor Sanwo-Olu's Second Term Bid Opposed By MURIC

The endorsement of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State for a second term has been opposed by the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC).

The development comes in the form of a statement by the MURIC Director Professor Ishaq Akintola.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) had endorsed Sanwo-Olu for a second term last week ahead of the 2023 governorship election.

Speaking in a statement on Monday, MURIC expressed its disagreement with the leadership of the party, stating that the endorsement violates a long-standing unwritten rule on the rotational governance between Christians and Muslims in Lagos State.

According to Akintola, Christians have had their two terms and now the Muslims have to have theirs as well.

"It is on record that ex-Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, a Christian, spent four years in office and another Christian, Babajide Sanwo-Olu was brought in ostensibly to complete the Christians’ two terms which expire by May 2023 when a Muslim, ceteris paribus, is expected to take over the reins of office.

"That is why Muslims in Lagos State regard the recent endorsement given to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to run for the Christians’ third term as unfair, unjust, and provocative.

"It may not be known in official circles, but Lagos Muslims are grumbling and we have been under pressure for some time now to speak up", he said.

Speaking further, Professor Akintola added: "Lagos Muslims are taxpayers and key stakeholders in issues affecting the welfare of Lagos citizens. We must, therefore, be consulted on matters of governance.

"We refuse to be blindfolded on the way to the polling booth. Neither shall we be satisfied just as voters, we must also be voted for.

"That is the essence of democracy. It must be participatory. The choice of candidates and leadership must not be lopsided in a democracy. Every segment of society must be consulted."