University of Port Harcourt Mosque Access Restriction Sparks Concern as MSSN Demands Policy Review

The Muslim Students' Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Rivers State Area Unit, has called on the management of the University of Port Harcourt to immediately review a reported decision restricting access to the university's mosque to only members of the institution's Muslim community.

In a press statement signed by its Secretary, Abdullateef A., the association described the decision as a disturbing development capable of setting an unhealthy precedent on religious inclusion and equal treatment within public institutions.

According to the statement, the directive, which was reportedly communicated through the Office of the Registrar following a decision by the University's Governing Council, has generated anxiety among Muslims both within and outside the university community.

MSSN noted that for decades, the University of Port Harcourt Mosque has served not only Muslim students and staff but also alumni, visiting scholars, professionals, travellers, peaceful Muslim residents, and members of neighbouring communities who lawfully worship at the facility without interfering with academic activities.

The group stated that the mosque has historically functioned as more than a place of worship, describing it as a centre for learning, moral instruction, community service, and peaceful coexistence. It added that the facility has strengthened the relationship between the university and the surrounding community through the longstanding "town and gown" tradition.

Expressing concern over the reported restriction, the association argued that excluding members of the wider Muslim public from the mosque departs from its historical role and could raise questions about fairness if similar measures are not applied to other religious facilities on campus.

MSSN also said the timing of the decision has heightened concerns within the Muslim community, noting that requests for approval to develop modest facilities within the mosque premises have remained unresolved for years. According to the association, these developments have created a perception among many Muslims that their concerns are not receiving equal consideration within the university.

While acknowledging the institution's responsibility to maintain security, the group maintained that such objectives should be pursued through measures that are fair, proportionate, and non-discriminatory, with equal application across the university.

The association called on the University's Governing Council to suspend the implementation of the policy and undertake an immediate review. It also urged the Vice-Chancellor to engage representatives of the Muslim community through dialogue and consultation to resolve the matter.

In addition, MSSN appealed to civil society organisations, religious leaders, alumni, and other stakeholders to support efforts toward a peaceful and equitable resolution. It also called on relevant national bodies responsible for religious freedom and human rights to monitor the situation and encourage constructive engagement.

The association stressed that the issue extends beyond access to the university mosque, describing it as one that touches on the principles of fairness, equal treatment, peaceful coexistence, and the responsibility of public universities to serve all members of society without discrimination.

MSSN reaffirmed its commitment to peace, dialogue, and respect for lawful authority, urging members of the Muslim community to remain calm, law-abiding, and peaceful while efforts continue to seek a review of the reported decision.