The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC), Nigeria, has strongly condemned the recent assault on a Muslim cleric by a masquerader during a cultural procession in Ogbomosho, Oyo State.
According to MPAC, the incident involved a masquerader identified as Lobanika, who allegedly struck off the cap of an Imam standing quietly by the roadside, allowing the procession to pass.
Describing the act as “a blatant violation of civil norms and personal rights,” MPAC said the attack was provocative and deeply disrespectful to Islamic values.
In a statement signed by its Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor, and made available to journalists on Friday, the organization criticized the incident as an infringement on the Imam’s constitutionally protected rights to dignity, religious freedom, and safety.
MPAC warned against the growing misuse of cultural traditions to justify lawlessness and religious intimidation.
“No cultural practice, tradition, or festival holds the right to trample on the rights of any Nigerian,” the statement read.“The removal of an Imam’s cap — a symbol of modesty and religious identity — is not only an insult to Islam but also a violation of human dignity.”
The group called on the Nigeria Police Force to swiftly investigate the incident and prosecute the masquerader and any accomplices involved.
It also urged the Oyo State Government to regulate masquerade festivals to ensure compliance with the law and respect for citizens’ rights.MPAC further stressed that traditional and community leaders must be held accountable when cultural events become avenues for harassment, violence, or extortion.
While encouraging Muslims to remain peaceful and law-abiding, the group emphasized that silence should not be mistaken for weakness.
“The Nigerian Constitution is the highest authority in the land — no individual, group, masquerade, or traditionalist stands above it,” Kamor stated.
MPAC pledged to continue pursuing justice for the affected cleric and to advocate for the protection of Muslim communities and all law-abiding citizens across Nigeria.
