The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has criticized the Oyo State Government over alleged plans to convert the premises of the State Library Board into a shopping complex. The group described the move as a disregard for education and a step backward in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on literacy and education.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade, the State Ambassador and Secretary General of MURIC’s Oyo State Chapter, urged Governor Seyi Makinde to immediately halt the proposed plan. Agunbiade stressed the necessity of prioritizing education, literacy development, and community empowerment.
“Converting a public library into a commercial space for traders will deprive the community of a valuable resource essential for education, research, and community development,” Agunbiade stated.
MURIC argued that instead of repurposing the library, the government should focus on increasing education funding, repairing dilapidated schools, and providing necessary learning resources for children.
“We request that the Governor prioritize education by fixing schools, supporting literacy campaigns, issuing a circular allowing the use of hijabs in public schools, and creating an enabling environment for our children to thrive,” the statement read.
Agunbiade also called on Governor Makinde to reflect his educational background in his governance approach. “For a well-educated governor, it is a no-brainer that education is crucial for economic growth, poverty reduction, and fostering an informed citizenry. We demand that education be taken seriously and prioritized in the state budget.”
The group further criticized the poor state of schools in Oyo State, citing dilapidated buildings and inadequate facilities as evidence of the government’s neglect. Agunbiade added, “The deplorable conditions of schools suggest that education is not a priority for the current administration. This must change immediately.”
MURIC also expressed concerns over the sale of other public assets, including the modern motor park facility at Wema, Old Ife Road, Ibadan, to private individuals. “We urge you to rescind your decision to convert the library into a shopping complex and instead build more libraries to support education in the state,” Agunbiade said.
The statement also addressed reports of students in faith-based public schools being prohibited from wearing hijabs, calling it an infringement on their rights. MURIC demanded that the government end any agreements that deny Muslim students the right to wear hijabs, emphasizing the need for religious inclusivity in public schools.
“This memorandum of understanding between the government and missionary schools is a channel to deprive Muslim children of their right to education in public schools. This must be stopped,” Agunbiade insisted.
As of the time of this report, the Oyo State Government had not issued a response to the allegations.
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