The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has criticised the programme for the week-long coronation ceremony of the Olubadan-elect, former Oyo State governor, Senator Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, over what it described as the “total alienation” of the Muslim Friday prayer.
According to the schedule released by the coronation planning committee, the ceremonies will begin on Monday, September 22, 2025, with an inter-religious prayer session, followed by a cultural fiesta, lecture, and Islamic and Christian services. However, the coronation proper is billed for Friday, September 26, at 9 a.m., with a reception at 1 p.m., while a Christian thanksgiving service will take place on Sunday, September 28, at the Catholic Cathedral, Oke Padre.
In a statement signed by its founder and Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, MURIC described the programme as insensitive, alleging that it “strangulates” the Muslim Jumu’ah prayer.
“We strongly object to the coronation fixed on the Muslim day of worship, particularly because no special mention or provision was made for Jumu’ah prayers,” the group said. “This is an attempt to Christianise the coronation ceremony.”
The group also accused Governor Seyi Makinde of a pattern of scheduling state events that clash with Friday prayers, recalling similar incidents during the coronation of the late Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, and the commissioning of the Iseyin road project in 2023.
MURIC urged the coronation committee to review the schedule, suggesting either a recognition of Muslims with a special “Thanksgiving Jumu’ah Service” by 1 p.m. on Friday or shifting the coronation proper to Saturday, September 27.
“Saturday is the best day for the coronation ceremony, as it would prevent any clash with the Friday Jumu’ah service and relieve the planners of unnecessary pressure,” Akintola said.
The group warned that ignoring Muslim sensitivities could send a wrong signal to local and international guests expected at the historic event.
