The Okanlomo Oodua and Bada Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, on Tuesday led a coalition of prominent Muslim organisations to the residence of the Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Imam of Oyo State, Sheikh AbdulGaniy Abubakry Agbotomokekere, to canvass support for the emergence of a Muslim governor in Oyo State in 2027.
The delegation, which comprised leaders and representatives of various Islamic groups, said their advocacy was anchored on the need to honour agreements and uphold fairness in the state’s political arrangement.
According to the stakeholders, the Muslim community massively supported Governor Seyi Makinde’s second-term bid in 2023 based on an understanding among Christian, Muslim and traditional leaders that power would rotate to a Muslim after the completion of Makinde’s eight-year tenure.
Speaking during the visit, Chief Sanusi stressed that agreements are sacred and should be respected by all parties involved.
He cited verses from the Qur’an and the Bible to emphasise the importance of integrity, faithfulness and keeping promises, noting that both Islam and Christianity place high value on honouring commitments.
Sanusi maintained that fulfilling agreements would strengthen trust, promote fairness and sustain peaceful coexistence among religious and political groups in the state.
Representatives of the Muslim organisations present at the meeting unanimously supported the call for a Muslim governor in 2027, arguing that the Muslim community has competent and experienced individuals capable of governing Oyo State successfully.
They urged political leaders and stakeholders to respect the understanding reached ahead of the 2023 election and ensure that the agreement is honoured in the interest of justice and equity.
Among the organisations represented at the meeting were NASFAT, NACOMYO, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), Muslim Youth Organisation of Nigeria (MYON), and other Islamic societies and community leaders.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Imam, Mogaji Basunnu, Alhaji Nurudeen Muhali, described Chief Sanusi as a man known for keeping his word and standing firmly by agreements.
He said the Chief Imam had listened carefully to the concerns raised by the delegation and assured them that their message had been received.
In his remarks, Sheikh Agbotomokekere commended the peaceful and respectful manner of the advocacy and highlighted the importance of honouring agreements in maintaining harmony within society.
The Grand Imam also prayed for peace, justice and unity in Oyo State, stressing that keeping promises remains essential to sustaining enduring harmony.
Other Islamic leaders present at the meeting included members of the Council of Imams, Alhaji Ismaheel Olaide Itamaya and Alhaji Abdul Wasiu Adegbeye.
