By Iyabo Adebisi
Reflecting on the lessons of Ramadan, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has called on people to live in peace and unity for the progress and stability of the state.
He said this at the 11th Omituntun Annual Ramadan Public Lecture, held at the Government House Arcade, Agodi, Ibadan, stressing that it was only when residents were united that the state could achieve greater things
Governor Makinde called on the Muslim Ummah to offer more prayers for the state, acknowledging their support over the years which he said had enabled the government to attain many things.
The Governor charged them to continually allow peaceful co-existence amongst them for the progress of the state.
He called for the observance of a minute silence for Sarkin Sasa, Alhaji Haruna Maiyasin Katsina, who passed away a few days ago, describing him as a strong backbone of his administration.
Reflecting on the lecture that focused on fulfillment of promise, he promised to donate two buses to the guest lecturer, Imam Yunus Teilat (Ayilara II), PhD and the family of the late Sarkin Sasa for the propagation of Islam.
Earlier, while delivering the Ramadan lecture entitled: “Benefits of being a good neighbour: An Islamic Perspective,” the Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, Imam Yunus Teila urged people to be tolerant amongst themselves, adding that religion should not create problems, irrespective of different ethnic groups, gender or nationality.
The Muslim cleric, who also lauded Governor Makinde for being God-fearing, urged him not to relent in doing what is right for the benefit of mankind.
In his opening remarks, the chairman, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, noted that Ramadan is a period of perseverance and tolerance, even as he commended women for their resilient efforts in coping with the demands at the home front.
Also in their separate goodwill messages, the Aare Musulumi of Yoruba-land, Edo and Delta, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola Akinola and a former Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, praised Governor Makinde, describing him as a leader, who accommodates everyone, regardless of their religious differences.
They also commended his efforts in completing projects abandoned by past administrations.
In his vote of thanks, the Deputy Governor, Chief Bayo Lawal, acknowledged the support enjoyed by the present administration from the Muslim community in the state and sought more prayers for the government.
