The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on voters in Osun State to reject Governor Ademola Adeleke in the forthcoming gubernatorial election, accusing his administration of nepotism and what it described as “edenisation” of governance.
In a statement issued on Monday, just days to the August 15, 2026 poll, the Islamic human rights organisation alleged that the governor had disproportionately favoured indigenes of his hometown, Ede, in political appointments and distribution of state resources.
The statement, signed by MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, claimed that several key government positions had allegedly been occupied by individuals from Ede since Adeleke assumed office. The group cited a video clip it said contained allegations of preferential treatment in civil service promotions and appointments.
According to MURIC, positions such as the Chief of Staff, multiple commissioners, chairpersons of state agencies, heads of tertiary institutions, and numerous special advisers and permanent secretaries were reportedly filled by Ede indigenes.
The organisation urged residents of Osun State to independently verify the claims and make informed decisions at the polls if the allegations are confirmed.
“People of Osun State have the right to know how their state is governed. Should these claims be true, voters must decide whether to continue under such leadership or reject it at the ballot,” the statement said.
MURIC stressed that its position was not an attack on the people of Ede but a critique of what it described as unfair governance. It argued that previous administrations in the state distributed appointments and development projects across different regions.
The group further alleged that the policy of “edenisation” led to the neglect of other towns, including Osogbo, Ife, Ilesha, and Ejigbo, in terms of infrastructure and political inclusion.
It also raised concerns over what it described as underrepresentation of Muslims in the state government, claiming that the religious majority received fewer political appointments.
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Calling the upcoming election a “moment of accountability,” MURIC urged voters across the state to reject what it termed “ethnic chauvinism” and demand equitable governance.
The Osun State governorship election is scheduled to hold on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
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