MURIC Reiterates Opposition to Oyedepo’s Private Airstrip, Challenges Aviation Minister

• The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) opposes the approval of a private airstrip for Bishop Oyedepo, citing national security concerns and inequity
• MURIC’s founder criticizes government favoritism towards influential religious leaders, fearing potential misuse of the airstrip for illicit activities

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), an Islamic human rights organization, has reaffirmed its objection to approving a private airstrip for Bishop David Oyedepo’s Living Faith Bible Church Worldwide.

The group’s founder and executive director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, responded to recent comments from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo.

The minister stated that private planes belonging to influential Nigerians, including Bishop Oyedepo, cannot leave the country directly from private airstrips without obtaining clearance from relevant authorities.

MURIC had previously opposed the airstrip’s approval. The House of Representatives also called for the revocation of airstrip licenses granted to individuals and private organizations, citing potential security concerns.

In a statement, MURIC argued that Nigeria’s existing structures are too weak to ensure effective control of such facilities. Professor Akintola stated, “Nigeria has weak structures but strong personalities.

We cannot trust this current system where ‘all animals are equal but some are more equal than others.’ We fear that Oyedepo will soon become the owner of the ‘authorities’ at his airstrip.”

He further criticized the minister for overlooking what he described as the “Nigerian factor,” where religious sentiment and ethnic biases influence decision-making.

Akintola remarked, “Privileged Nigerians, particularly religious leaders, are often revered, and Oyedepo is at the top of this list. Who will search Daddy G.O.’s jet? Who will stop any plane from taking off or landing at Daddy G.O.’s airstrip?”