Oyo State Governor and the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), ‘Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among residents, declaring that religious differences must never be allowed to create division or conflict in the state.
The governor made this statement on Saturday at the opening of the three-day Rabitah 2026 Conference, organised by the League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland, at the Jogor Events Centre, Ibadan.
Addressing Imams, Alfas, Ulama, traditional rulers, political leaders, and other stakeholders at the gathering, Governor Makinde noted that as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections begin to gather momentum, leaders and citizens alike must remain committed to preserving the harmony and stability for which Oyo State is renowned.
He said: “We won’t allow religion to divide us. Let us pray for our state and our country because this is the period leading up to the next election, when a new set of leaders will emerge.”
Governor Makinde emphasised that Oyo State has a long-standing tradition of religious tolerance, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. He stressed that the state’s progress and development must remain more important than political competition and divisive rhetoric.
According to him, many families in Oyo State comprise both Muslims and Christians, making religious division not only unnecessary but also inconsistent with the state’s social reality.
Drawing from his personal experience, the governor stated that his own family reflects the deep interfaith relationships that have existed in Oyo State for generations. He urged citizens to continue fostering understanding across religious lines and to reject any attempt to exploit faith for political gain.
He added: “I want to appeal to all of us not to allow ourselves to be divided along religious lines because we share the same ancestry, and the same blood flows through our veins.”
Governor Makinde further called on the religious leaders to continue praying for the peace, unity, and prosperity of Oyo State and Nigeria. He also encouraged them to use their influence to promote responsible civic engagement as the country approaches another election cycle.
The governor acknowledged the important role religious leaders play in shaping societal values and encouraging peaceful participation in the democratic process.
In support of the conference and its objectives, Governor Makinde announced a donation of ₦50 million to the organisers. He described the gathering as a valuable platform for spiritual reflection, stakeholder engagement, and collective prayers for the continued progress of Oyo State and Nigeria.
He also expressed confidence in the people of the state and optimism that Oyo State would continue to serve as a model of religious harmony and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, Governor Makinde maintained that the state’s greatest strength lies in the unity of its people and urged residents to protect that bond as they prepare to usher in a new generation of leadership.
