Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday reopened the Central Mosque in Ikare, ending longstanding disputes and marking a milestone in the state’s religious and communal life.
He announced the reopening during an Iftar for Muslim faithful at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, where he called on residents to embrace tolerance, mutual respect and harmony.
Aiyedatiwa told the gathering that Ramadan is a period for reflection, spiritual renewal and moral reawakening.
Specifically, he credited the reopening of the mosque to the efforts of the Olukare of Ikare, the Grand Mufti, and the Chief Imam, who he announced would lead prayers at the mosque.
His words, “This Ramadan reminds us of peace, empathy, love, and compassion. I thank residents for their support and cooperation. May Allah bless our Sunshine State.”
He emphasised that devotion extends beyond fasting and prayer, encompassing generosity, integrity and compassion within families and communities.
“As we break our fast today, I call on all residents, Muslims, Christians and followers of every faith to nurture peace and reject division. Our diversity is our strength and harmony forms the foundation of Ondo State’s progress,” he added.
He further highlighted the overlap of Ramadan with the Christian Lenten season, describing it as a divine reminder of unity between the state’s major faiths and assured Muslim communities that his administration would continue to regard them as key partners in governance and development.
Responding to concerns from Muslim leaders, including the Grand Mufti and Haji Yahya Koride, Chief Imam of Akure, on civil service promotions, Aiyedatiwa explained that promotions are determined by seniority to protect officers who have advanced through the ranks.
He confirmed that those at Level 16 would eventually rise to permanent secretary, cautioning that introducing less experienced officers could demoralise others and affect service delivery.
On security, the governor acknowledged isolated incidents of kidnapping while confirming that over 99 suspects had been apprehended and would face justice. He condemned staged kidnappings, in which criminals hide and demand ransoms, describing such acts as criminal.
He also clarified reports of bandit arrests at Akure airport, stressing that the state’s security apparatus targets kidnappers, not terrorists, and insisted there are no bandits in Ondo as rumoured.
“Security is a shared responsibility. Communities, especially in rural areas, must cooperate with law enforcement. Report suspicious activities and do not harbour criminals. Together, we can keep our neighbourhoods and places of worship safe,” he urged.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to good governance, Aiyedatiwa assured that ongoing programmes in healthcare, education, empowerment, infrastructure and economic development would continue unaffected by political narratives.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Ondo Muslim Welfare Board, Alhaji Zikrullah Adam Chandy, commended the governor for organising the iftar, describing the gathering as a rare opportunity for Muslims to meet, dine, and engage directly with the governor and his cabinet. He praised the event as a memorable occasion that strengthened bonds of unity among the faithful.
In his lecture, Alhaji Sheikh Batuta Al-Adaby noted that while fasting and prayers are accepted by God, good conduct is more pleasing. He emphasised that acts of worship causing discord are unacceptable and highlighted truthfulness, gratitude, and responsible leadership as essential virtues.
Chief Imam of Akure, Sheikh Abdulhaheem Yayi-Akorode, in his goodwill message, lauded the governor’s efforts but stressed that the Muslim community deserved greater consideration, particularly regarding the upcoming House of Assembly elections and the recent appointments of permanent secretaries, pointing out that qualified Muslims had been overlooked.
