…Declares Ikare Central Mosque reopened after leadership dispute
By Tolulope Eniola
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has called for unity, religious tolerance and collective responsibility among residents, as he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and decisive action against insecurity.
The governor made the remarks during a Ramadan Iftar gathering with Muslim faithful in the state, describing the holy month as a period of reflection, compassion and moral renewal.
Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed that the essence of Ramadan goes beyond fasting, noting that true devotion is reflected in generosity, integrity and peaceful coexistence.
He urged adherents of all religions to embrace harmony and mutual respect, saying the diversity of the state remains a critical pillar for development.
“Our diversity is our strength, and our ability to live together in harmony is the bedrock on which our state’s progress is built,” he said.
The governor also described the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season as a divine sign of unity between both faiths, urging citizens to reject division and promote understanding.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to fairness, Aiyedatiwa assured the Muslim community of continued inclusion in governance, appointments and developmental policies.
He explained that due process and seniority within the civil service remain key considerations in appointments, particularly for positions such as permanent secretaries, noting that qualified officers would be elevated accordingly.
On security, the governor disclosed that more than 99 suspects involved in kidnapping for ransom had been arrested, assuring residents that those found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
He acknowledged isolated cases of insecurity in parts of the state but maintained that the situation was under control, with security agencies intensifying operations and deploying new strategies to curb criminal activities.
Aiyedatiwa also raised concerns over fraudulent cases where individuals allegedly staged kidnappings to solicit funds, warning that such acts are criminal and under investigation.
“We are taking strong measures to confront these challenges. Our security agencies are being strengthened, strategies redefined, and resources deployed to protect lives and property,” he said.
The governor emphasized that security is a shared responsibility, calling on traditional rulers, community leaders and residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies.
“When you see something, say something. We must all work together to keep our communities safe,” he added.
On governance, Aiyedatiwa assured that his administration remains focused on delivering dividends of democracy, including improvements in healthcare, education, infrastructure and economic opportunities.
He stated that ongoing political narratives would not distract the government from its commitment to the welfare of the people.
In a major highlight of the event, the governor announced the reopening of the Central Mosque in Akure, which had been closed following a leadership dispute.
He commended religious leaders for resolving the crisis and declared that the Chief Imam would resume leading prayers at the mosque.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Muslim Welfare Board in the state commended the governor for organizing the Iftar, describing it as a unique opportunity for Muslim faithful to engage directly with the government.
He noted that the initiative has inspired similar gatherings across the state, while fostering stronger bonds between the government and the Muslim community.
The Iftar event brought together religious leaders, government officials and Muslim faithful, reinforcing messages of unity, peace and shared responsibility for the progress of the state.
In his lecture, Alhaji Sheikh Batuta Al-Adaby stated that the characters exhibited during the Ramadan is what is expected of Muslim faithful always.
He added that all the fasting and prayers are important but good characters are more important to Almighty Allah.
He stressed that every character, either good or bad has its own rewards. He stressed the importance of brindling one’s tongue as it is essential in escaping any traps set for a person.
He said that one must be truthful and trustworthy in order to bring honour to the person.
According to him, every leader must be accomodating, generous. He also urged everyone to have the spirit of gratitude to Almighty Allah, as it brings progress.
In his goodwill message, the Grand Imam of Akure, Sheikh AbdulHakeem Yayi Akorede, commended the Governor for the development of the State, stressing that the Muslim community deserves more.
The event featured prayer for the Nation, prayer for the State, as well as prayer for Govenor Aiyedatiwa.
In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; The Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Olamide Oladiji; President, Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Eunice Alade; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip; Members of the State Executive Council; State Chairman of APC, Hon. Kolawole Babatunde; Member representing Ondo East/West federal constituency, Hon. Abiola Makinde; Traditional Rulers; APC Chieftains, political appointees, among others.
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