Says: Don’t Mortgage Muslim Children’s Future

Abeokuta — The Ogun State Council for Islamic Affairs (OGCIA) has strongly objected to the proposed return of public schools to missionary control, describing the move as a “misplaced priority” and a “gross disrespect” to the Muslim community.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Sheikh Abdu-Rasheed Folajuwon Mayaleeke, the Council warned Governor Dapo Abiodun against what it termed a “policy somersault” that could jeopardize peaceful coexistence in the state.
“We view the proposed return of public schools to missionaries with great concern. It is a misplaced priority, gross disrespect for the sensibility of the Muslim community, and a policy somersault in its entirety,” the Council declared.
The OGCIA reminded the government that the nationalisation of schools decades ago was intended to promote fairness, justice, and free access to education. According to the Council, while Christian missions accepted compensation at the time, Muslim missions surrendered their schools without taking any payment, “in the best interest of the public.”
The statement also recalled that a similar proposal was floated by a past governor but was abandoned after warnings that it could “pitch both faiths against each other” and threaten the fragile peace in Ogun State. Instead, that administration opted for a dual system where government schools and missionary private schools coexisted.
“Interestingly, these private schools still sustain the tradition of the missionaries and, oftentimes, are no-go areas for Muslim children,” the Council noted.
The OGCIA cautioned that returning schools to missionary control could reintroduce religious bias into public education, marginalizing children from diverse backgrounds.
“He who pays the piper dictates the tune. Reversing the present trend undermines fairness, transparency, and accountability in governance,” the statement said.
The Council urged Governor Abiodun to “tread the path of honor” and preserve the legacy of peace in Ogun State. It warned that the Muslim community could mount “unprecedented statewide resistance” if the policy is pursued.
“We pray Allah to guide our Governor to write his name on the marble of honor before he leaves and avert an unprecedented statewide resistance of the Muslim community to his policy somersault,” Sheikh Mayaleeke said.