By Abdul-Mumin AbdulQuadir
* MURIC condemns attacks, seeks prosecution of culprits
Tension erupted in Oko Ewe community in the Ijagba area of Ado Odo Otta Local Government Area of Ogun State on Wednesday, May 13, following an alleged violent attack on Muslims working at a newly established Muslim graveyard within the community.
The incident reportedly occurred at the Maqbarah recently commissioned by members of the Muslim community to provide a peaceful and dignified burial ground for deceased Muslims in the area.
Muslim News gathered that the graveyard officially commenced operations on Saturday, May 9, after the Muslim community acquired the land, completed documentation processes, and secured the necessary approval for its use.
Sources within the community said the project was collectively funded and supported by Muslim residents and other well meaning individuals both within and outside the area to address the burial needs of Muslims in a safe and serene environment.
However, what was meant to be a routine installation of security facilities at the graveyard reportedly turned violent after some community members allegedly stormed the location and attacked those present.
According to eyewitnesses, the victims were at the graveyard to install security lights and Closed Circuit Television cameras aimed at improving security around the facility when they were confronted by some individuals led by a businessman popularly known as AFASCO and another man identified as Mr Ahmad.
One of the victims, Mr Taofeeq Ishola, who sustained severe injuries during the incident, narrated how the attack unfolded.
He explained that members of the Muslim committee had earlier met with the community leadership after concerns were raised about security around the graveyard.
According to him, “We acquired the land legally, completed all documentation and obtained approval. The community head invited us for a meeting and expressed concerns about security around the Maqbarah. We reassured him that we were already working on installing security lights and CCTV cameras to ensure adequate protection of the place.”
He said after the meeting, members of the committee proceeded to the graveyard to continue work when the situation suddenly changed.
“We were discussing the installation of the CCTV cameras when Afasco and Mr Ahmad arrived and started shouting that they did not want a graveyard there. We remained calm despite their hostility and they later left after telling us to attend a community meeting,” he said.
Mr Ishola alleged that the men later returned with a group of about fifteen persons armed with dangerous weapons.
“A few minutes later, they returned with charms, machetes, dogs and other weapons. They attempted to intimidate us and later released dogs on us. When that failed, they attacked us with machetes and other objects,” he said.
He further disclosed that he sustained a deep injury after being struck on the head with a heavy metal object while trying to protect himself.
“One of them picked up a heavy metal and hit me on the head. I tried to shield myself with my hands but I still suffered a deep cut on my head. The bleeding was serious and we had to run for our lives,” he added.
The victims subsequently reported the matter at Itele Police Station.
According to the victims, the attackers allegedly pursued them on the road in an attempt to prevent them from reaching the police station.
“We managed to get to the police station safely. They also came there and tried to counter our complaint, but the police arrested and detained them,” one of the victims said.
Meanwhile, the Muslim Rights Concern, MURIC, has condemned the attack and called for diligent prosecution of those responsible.
The Islamic human rights organisation commended officers of the Itele Division of the Nigeria Police Force for their swift intervention and professionalism in handling the matter.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, the group described the attack as premeditated and dangerous.
“MURIC commends the Divisional Police Officer of Itele Police Station and all officers involved for their prompt response and courage in arresting the assailants,” the statement said.
The organisation urged the police not to allow external influence interfere with the case, stressing that justice must be served.
“A case involving violent assault and grievous bodily harm must not be treated lightly. Criminal elements must face the full weight of the law. Nigerians deserve to see justice done,” the group stated.
MURIC also expressed concern over the condition of one of the victims identified as Al Hilal, who was reportedly attacked with cutlasses and left in critical condition.
“The attackers chased their victims into the bush. Unfortunately, Al Hilal was caught and severely injured with cutlass blows to the head. It was a horrifying scene and he is currently battling for his life in the hospital,” the organisation added.
The incident has since generated concern among Muslims in the area, with many calling for peaceful coexistence, protection of religious rights, and adequate security for the Muslim burial ground.
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