The group calls for respect for Yoruba Muslim traditional rulers’ right to live and be buried according to Islamic rites.

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

A faith-based human rights organization, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has urged people in the South West to stop violating the rights of Yoruba Muslim traditional rulers who choose to live and be buried as Muslims.

In a statement released on Monday, 27th October 2025, the group’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, emphasized that Muslim monarchs retain their right to practice Islam even after ascending the throne.

According to him, being a traditional ruler does not automatically make one a traditional worshipper. He noted that many Muslim kings were devout Muslims before their coronation, and their faith remains unchanged.

Akintola described any attempt to force Muslim monarchs to live or be buried as traditionalists as “religious coercion,” urging respect for constitutional freedom of religion as guaranteed under Section 38 of the Nigerian Constitution.

He further condemned reports of intimidation and forced participation in traditional rites, saying every ruler should be allowed to freely practice their faith without interference.