The clarification was contained in a statement issued in Ilorin by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Isiaka Gold.

Describing the rumour as wicked and malicious, Alhaji Gold said the state government has neither sold nor considered selling the praying ground, which according to him, is sacred to all Muslims.

The SSG said the rumour was the handiwork of mischief makers who wanted to manipulate the peace-loving people of Kwara State for selfish ends.

The state government said that while it respects the people's right to free expression, it will not tolerate the fabrication and circulation of rumours capable of disrupting the peace and harmonius co-existence among the people of the state.

Alhaji Gold stressed that the rumour as inciting and warned those peddling such falsehood to desist as the full weight of the law will be brought to bear on the perpetrators.