MURIC Accuses Adeleke University of Religious Intolerance, Calls for NUC Intervention
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has accused Adeleke University, Ede, of religious discrimination against its Muslim students, alleging that the institution disrupts Ramadan activities and compels Muslim students to attend church services.
In a statement released on Thursday, March 20, 2025, by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, MURIC claimed it had received multiple complaints about the university’s alleged attempts to suppress Islamic practices on campus. According to the statement, Muslim students were reportedly warned against observing tarawih (Ramadan night prayers) and were being forced to participate in Christian religious programs.
“These are signs of religious intolerance,” Akintola stated, adding that Adeleke University had been accused of similar actions in the past. He referenced a 2019 complaint in which MURIC urged the National Universities Commission (NUC) to investigate allegations of forced church attendance and restrictions on Islamic practices within the institution.
MURIC further alleged that Adeleke University conceals its religious policies from prospective students until they have paid tuition fees, making it difficult for them to withdraw. The organization called on the NUC to urgently investigate these claims, citing concerns over religious freedom and transparency in private universities.
The controversy has reignited discussions on religious inclusivity in Nigeria’s private educational institutions, with MURIC urging Muslim parents to avoid enrolling their children in Christian-owned universities that allegedly impose religious restrictions.
