(Lagos, 23/05/2014) The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) is calling for a police crime investigation of a reported case of stage-managed Boko Haram-type attack by Pastor Olatoke in Ikonifin, Ola Oluwa Local government area of Osun State on Sunday 18th May, 2014. The pastor of the Baptist church Ikonifin, who is also the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) President of Ola Oluwa Local Government, was reported to have conspired with three members of his church, Emmanuel Atanda, Peter Oyedepo and Ogunniyi Babatope during the church services to dress like Muslims and use turban to cover their faces.

On interrogation, the pastor admitted to sponsoring the attack, but claimed it was just a drama. This is illogical and should be seen as a calculated attempt to cause chaos in Osun State by the same groups who have been creating all kind of problems for the Aregbesola’s administration. Because of the apparent criminal motive behind this incident and the actors’ incitement of recriminatory and hate attacks on the Muslim community in Osun State and beyond, we urge the SSS to assist local and state law enforcement agencies in the investigation and bring charges against them.