The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has condemned the recent assault on an Imam in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, by a masquerade known as Lobanika.

The incident happened a few days ago at Oja’gbo, Ogbomoso, when the masquerade who was holding a cane, removed the cap of the Imam who was on a motorcycle.

The masquerader said to be very violent even went back to see the reaction of the Imam.

Several Islamic scholars including the Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland, Shaykh Teliat Ayilara, had condemned the assault.

It was the latest in the series of violence unleashed on Muslims in the South-West by masquerades.

In June, some masquerades invaded a mosque in Ondo, assaulting the Imam and beating up women.

However, MPAC condemned the “brazen disregard for civil norms and individual rights” when the masquerade “struck off the Imam’s cap in public.”

The assault occurred despite the Imam maintaining a calm and respectful posture as the procession passed, taking no action that could be deemed provocative, the centre said.

MPAC Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor, in a statement said, “This deeply disturbing incident is not an isolated case. It follows a growing pattern of cultural impunity and aggression, most recently evidenced by a public announcement issued by the Oloolu masquerade group in Ibadan, which warned women to stay off designated areas and imposed a compulsory dress code on all men within the vicinity of its procession.

“The declarations of suspension of freedom of movement, and imposition of a dress code on the general public, are not only unconstitutional but dangerously authoritarian.

“No group – cultural, traditional, or religious – has the authority to suspend or curtail the rights of Nigerian citizens under any guise. The Nigerian Constitution guarantees the freedom of movement, association, and religious expression to all Nigerians, irrespective of gender, faith, or ethnicity. The right to celebrate cultural heritage does not grant anyone the right to intimidate, harass, or violate the dignity of others.”

The group demanded an immediate investigation by the Nigeria Police Force into the Ogbomoso assault and the prompt prosecution of Lobanika and any accomplices involved.

It also called for urgent regulation of masquerade festivals by the Oyo State Government, ensuring that cultural expressions do not infringe upon the rights and freedoms of citizens.

“We call on Muslims and all law-abiding citizens to remain peaceful, vigilant, and resilient in the face of such provocations.

“However, our patience must never be mistaken for powerlessness, nor our silence for submission to injustice.

“Let it be clearly understood: Nigeria belongs to all of us, and no group is above the law. Cultural celebration must not become an instrument of oppression or a shield for unlawful conduct.

“MPAC will continue to monitor these developments and stand firm in the pursuit of justice, dignity, and equal protection for Nigerian Muslims and all peaceful citizens.” (Daily Trust)