By Precious Oluwole

Ahead of the forth coming gubernatorial election coming up in few weeks, Ondo State Muslim Community on Thursday, declared their support for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s gubernatorial ambition.

In his address, the Baba Adinni of Owo kingdom, Alhaji Jamiu Ekungba noted that Governor Aiyedatiwa is a man that has been ordained by God, thereby he has already won the battle.

According to him, Muslims have a very large number in the State with over 470 mosques across the State and their votes cannot be overlooked. He added that the Muslim Community have unanimously agreed to support and vote for the Governor during the election.

The assured the Governor that they will support him through their prayers, canvass support everywhere in their various communities.

Alhaji Sheikh Ahmad Olagoke Aladesawe, the Chief Imam of Owo land and Chairman of the League of Imams and Alfas in Ondo State, expressed the muslim community’s united support for the governor, offering prayers for a peaceful election.

In his goodwill message, the Grand Mufti of Ondo State, Alhaji Surajudeen Batuta expressed his confidence that the forth coming election would be a peaceful one, he urged the Governor to remember the Muslims in his government.

Also speaking, the Olubaka of Oka Akoko, Oba Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, while appreciating the Governor for including Muslims in his cabinet, noted that the Muslims are solidly behind Governor Aiyedatiwa and are ready to work for him.

The Monarch, who spoke on behalf of other traditional rulers in attendance, kicked against the return of schools to missionaries and also the denials of female students to wear their hijabs, he urged the Governor to upgrade the primary and secondary schools across the State.

The Chief Imam of Akure, Sheikh Abdulhakeem Yayi Akorede commended the Governor for his choice of people in his government, adding that their decision to endorse Governor Aiyedatiwa is as a result of his good works which they want it to continue. He stressed that the Muslims vote this time would be more than the past.

Reacting, Governor Aiyedatiwa appreciated the Muslim Community for their declaration and pledge to vote for him, noting that they would not be deprived of whatever they should enjoy.

The Governor pledged that the requests tabled by them would definitely receive proper and prompt attention, emphasizing that his administration values inclusivity, pledging that everyone will be given equal rights, irrespective of religious differences.

The event held at the Dome featured presentation of award of excellence by the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO) to the Governor in recognition of his support and contribution to the Muslim society.

The Governor also flagged off the distribution of equipment such as grinding machines, clippers, sewing machines for enterprenurers.

In attendance were: The Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, State Chairman of APC, Engr Ade Adetimehin, Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, Former Deputy Governors of Ondo State, Alhaji Ali Olanusi, Alhaji Abdulazeez Oluboyo, Traditional rulers, Spiritual leaders, among other dignitaries.