Lagos – In a dramatic turn of events, the Muslim Community in Somolu Local Government Area of Lagos State has disassociated itself from a letter reportedly rejecting the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate over his Christian faith.

The letter, which had circulated across social media platforms, stirred controversy and raised concerns about potential religious bias in local politics.

However, Somolu’s Muslim community swiftly countered the claims, emphasising that the alleged signatories of the letter do not represent the collective voice of Muslims in the area.

In a video recorded at the Somolu Central Mosque, Muslim leaders affirmed their support for the party’s choice of a Christian candidate, emphasising their commitment to peace.

“We have not come for a fight. We are for peace. We support the party’s choice for the Chairmanship candidate,” they declared.

The leaders, surrounded by dozens of community members during the video recording, noted that their faith encourages unity and mutual respect, especially in a cosmopolitan city like Lagos.

They emphasised that religious affiliation should not override competence and party loyalty in choosing leaders.

The community also distanced itself from certain Muslim leaders allegedly behind the rejection of a Christian candidate, criticising their lack of contribution to the community’s welfare.

“We will not support some Muslim leaders who have not contributed to our welfare in the past; they are not speaking for us but only for themselves,” the group stated.

The leaders mentioned that these individuals only surface during elections, often using religion as a political tool to sway public opinion.

The community called on political actors to focus on development, youth empowerment, and social welfare instead of promoting division.

Instead, they praised Christian aspirants who have positively impacted the Muslim community in Somolu. The Muslim community’s stance underscores their prioritisation of peace and progress over religious differences.

They cited examples of Christian leaders who have supported mosque renovations, sponsored indigent students, and provided healthcare interventions in the area.

“We judge people by their actions, not just their religion,” one community elder commented in the gathering.

“We are for peace and will not do anything to jeopardise the party’s progress in the state. Somolu Muslims are for peace,” the group reiterated.

They urged all religious and political stakeholders to maintain harmony and respect the choices made by the APC, noting that the strength of Somolu lies in its unity and peaceful coexistence.