Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, who is seeking re-election as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the upcoming gubernatorial election on November 16, has assured residents of fair and inclusive governance, irrespective of their religious backgrounds. This commitment follows a notable endorsement from the Muslim community during an event at the International Culture and Events Centre in Akure.
Key Highlights
- Muslim Community Support: The endorsement ceremony featured prominent figures from the Muslim community, including Alhaji Sheikh Ahmad Olagoke Aladesawe, Chief Imam of Owo and Chairman of the League of Imams and Alfas in Ondo State. He expressed unified support for Aiyedatiwa, offering prayers for a peaceful electoral process.
- Solidarity with National Leadership: Chief Jamiu Ekungba, Baba Adinni of Owo Kingdom, reaffirmed their commitment to support Aiyedatiwa just as they did for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the presidential election, emphasizing the community’s active participation in politics.
- Divinely Guided Leadership: The Grand Mufti of Ondo State, Alhaji Surajudeen Batuta, praised Aiyedatiwa’s leadership as divinely guided and predicted that the upcoming election would be among the most peaceful in the state’s history. He acknowledged the governor’s efforts in including Muslims in political appointments, expressing confidence in positive outcomes for the state.
- Support for Islamic Education: In a goodwill message, Oba Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, the Olubaka of Oka Land, commended the support from the Muslim community and advocated for increased recruitment of Arabic teachers and the establishment of government-funded schools to enhance Islamic education.
- Confidence in Victory: Sheikh Abdulhakeem Yayi Akorede, Chief Imam of Akure, stated that the endorsement gives Aiyedatiwa confidence in his electoral prospects, expressing that the community “stands solidly behind him.” He also called for greater Muslim representation in the administration.
- Empowerment Initiative: The event concluded with Aiyedatiwa receiving an award for excellence and launching an empowerment initiative aimed at providing equipment to promote economic self-sufficiency within the Muslim community.
Commitment to Inclusivity
In his response, Governor Aiyedatiwa thanked the Muslim community for their endorsement and reiterated his commitment to inclusivity as a cornerstone of his administration. He pledged that all residents of Ondo State, regardless of their faith, would be granted equal rights and opportunities, reinforcing the importance of unity and cooperation in governance.
As the election approaches, this show of solidarity from the Muslim community signals a significant endorsement for Aiyedatiwa, who aims to foster a government that represents and serves all constituents effectively.
