The debut edition of Gbangba Walia, a Yoruba current affairs online TV show anchored by Mukhtar Ajelogbon, took a dramatic turn as the Muslim Political Awareness Front (MUPAF) accused political leaders across the Southwest of sidelining Muslims in appointments and democratic benefits, despite their overwhelming electoral contribution.
Speaking during the engagement, several MUPAF leaders from different states expressed disappointment over what they described as “systemic imbalance” in federal and state appointments, insisting that the Muslim population, dominant in many Southwest states, has not been adequately represented.
“Tinubu is our father, but we cannot accept hanky-panky”. MUPAF leaders emphasized their loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as “a father figure and devoted Muslim,” but lamented the disparity between electoral support and political reward.
According to the group, expectations were high during the last election, especially from the Yoruba Muslim community, yet appointments have not reflected the population realities.
“If we want to share the country’s resources, it must be done accurately according to the demographics, not to favour one side,” a leader said.
They cited examples of the newly established SouthWest Development Commissions where Christians dominated appointments despite Muslims accounting for over 60% of the population in the Southwest.
One instance highlighted had 18 appointed officials, with only two Muslims, while both the chairman and secretary were Christians.
In another board of 11 members, 9 were Christians, and the two Muslims appointed were not even from the Southwest.
“They treat us like second-class citizens. If Mr. President truly knows our value, it should reflect in his selections. Many competent professors and experts who supported him were left out,” the group National Coordinator, Alh Lukman Obembe lamented, adding that there is “still time for correction.”
Hon. Keshinro Jamiu from Ogun State added that many youths and women who previously showed little interest in elections have now been mandated to register for their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
“Car gifts to the lmams don’t solve the problem” — MUPAF
Some leaders also dismissed recent gestures by federal government to some Imams, saying such benefits were not proportional to what Christian clerics have reportedly received.
Women Are Being Forgotten, MUPAF Women’s Wing
Speaking further, the MUPAF Osun State Women Coordinator, Alhaja Khadijat Yusuf Abajaoro lamented the lack of government programmes supporting Muslim women.
“A girl graduates and finds no job, no tools to learn a trade,no direction from government. This pushes many into desperation. If Mr. President adjusts, there is still hope. Muslim women should not be allowed to suffer.”
Osun 2026: “We Will Support Any Party That Fields a Muslim Candidate”
Mr Alamu Dele Gafar from Osogbo, speaking on MUPAF’s Osun agenda, clarified that the group has not endorsed any candidate for the 2026 governorship election.
“We only care about a candidate who will do what is right. We will work hard for any party that presents a God-fearing Muslim candidate with clear programs for the masses.” He noted that MUPAF had earlier raised concerns about the failure of the present Osun government by Ademola Adeleke to appoint Muslims in his cabinet.
He concluded by saying governor Adeleke is religiously controversial by disguising as a Muslim during the election and failed to identified by the Muslims after getting their votes.
Ogun State: “Muslims Delivered the Votes, Yet Christians Hold All Top Offices”
MUPAF representatives from Ogun State noted that the 2023 elections confirmed Muslims as the highest voting bloc in the Southwest, yet key positions are dominated by Christians.
He listed the governor, Chief of Staff, SSG, Chief Judge, and Head of Service, six out of seven principal offices, as Christian.
The group also expressed frustration over the governor’s approval for the use of hijab in public schools, saying the directive has not been implemented because no official circular has been issued.
Oyo State: “Makinde Broke His Promise”
From Oyo State, Mr. Taofeek Adam Oladele condemned the state government’s alleged failure to balance representation.
He said despite having having Muslims as Senators in all the senatorial districts, Governor Seyi Makinde eventually presented all Christian candidates.
“I’m from Oke-Ogun; we don’t settle for crumbs. The governor has not done well for Muslims, and he is even creating division among us.”
Rounding it up, the Osun State MUPAF Secretary, Mr Gbadamosi Mukaila, called the governments at all levels especially the federal government to quickly look into the demands of Southwest Muslims before it is too late. He also advocates for the implementation of local government autonomy law in Osun Osun state for the benefit of the grassroots.
