The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has strongly criticized the scheduling of a Lassa fever lecture by the Department of Pharmacy at Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), describing its timing as provocative and a violation of religious rights.
The lecture, reportedly fixed for Friday, June 26, 2026, between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m., coincides with the Jumu’ah prayer period, a development MURIC says undermines the constitutional right to freedom of worship for Muslim staff and students.
In a statement issued on Monday, MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, called on JUTH and the University of Jos to immediately review the programme and ensure that official activities do not clash with the Friday congregational prayer.
MURIC described the scheduling as “an overreach” and warned that holding official engagements during Jumu’ah is not only insensitive but also unlawful. The group stressed that such actions could hinder peaceful coexistence and fuel religious tension.
According to the statement, the timing of the lecture suggests either a communication gap within the institution or a unilateral decision by the Department of Pharmacy. It further warned that repeated instances of such scheduling could indicate systemic disregard for the religious rights of Muslims.
“A university is expected to uphold justice, fairness, and respect for fundamental human rights. Fixing official programmes during Jumu’ah raises serious concerns about adherence to these principles,” Akintola said.
The organization also extended its warning to all public institutions, urging them to avoid scheduling meetings, lectures, examinations, and other official activities during the Jumu’ah period. It argued that such practices amount to discrimination and violate Section 38(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion.
MURIC drew a comparison with Christian worship, questioning how Christians would react if official duties were deliberately fixed during Sunday church services.
The group hinted at possible legal action against institutions or officials who continue to disregard religious rights, emphasizing the need to prevent actions capable of triggering religious unrest.
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It further urged the Provost of JUTH to intervene and direct the Department of Pharmacy to reschedule the lecture, noting that while the topic is important, its timing is inappropriate.
“A good initiative should not be overshadowed by poor planning. Respect for religious diversity is essential for national unity and peace,” the statement added.
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