Delta pilgrim board splits over alleged marginalization

Delta State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board is divided over allegations of marginalisation.

The grievances may not be unconnected to allegations that indigenous Muslims in the state are being sidelined in favour of non-indigenes.

Stakeholders have expressed deep concerns over the recent appointments into the board and have called on the Delta State Government to review the appointments in the interest of fairness, inclusiveness and community harmony.

Speaking on the issue on Sunday, the Publicity Secretary of the Delta State Muslim Council, Abdulsalam Ogan, expressed dissatisfaction with the composition of the board, describing the development as unfair to indigenous Muslim communities across the state.

“The appointments have generated concerns among some members of the Muslim community who believe that qualified indigenous Muslims should be given priority in positions relating to the administration of religious affairs within the state.”

He specifically questioned the appointment of a representative for Delta Central, arguing that there are competent indigenous Muslims within the senatorial district capable of occupying such positions.

The spokesperson further alleged that “the trend reflects a broader pattern of exclusion affecting indigenous Muslims in the state.

“Failure to address the concerns being raised could degenerate into bad blood and potentially create avoidable tensions within the Muslim community.

“Governor Sheriff Oborevwori should reassess the appointments and engage relevant stakeholders to ensure equitable representation in institutions connected to the welfare of Muslim faithful in Delta State,” Ogan warned.