A prominent businessman and community leader, Alhaji Monzur Ayoade Ejide, has dismissed rumours linking him to activities capable of causing disunity in Ogbomosoland, describing the claims as baseless and misleading.
Ejide made this clarification on Tuesday evening while hosting an interfaith iftar at his residence in Ogbomoso, an event attended by a broad spectrum of religious groups, professional bodies, and media organisations.
Addressing the gathering, he maintained that he has no affiliation with any group or interest that could threaten the peace of the community, stressing that his lifelong commitment has been to unity, inclusiveness, and development.
“Ogbomoso is my home. From my youthful days, I have related freely with people across all divides without discrimination. My businesses are established here to serve both indigenes and visitors,” he said.
The event attracted participants from the Nurudeen Society of Nigeria (Ogbomoso Chapter), Ansarudeen Muslim Society, ISBON, Christian faithful, as well as professional associations including the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) and the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (FIBAN). Media organisations such as NTA Ogbomoso, PanNigerianNews, and Scoopchase were also represented.
Ejide urged residents to disregard the rumours and focus on fostering peace, unity, and harmonious coexistence, which he described as essential for the town’s progress and collective prosperity.
He also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and religious heads to take proactive measures in resolving disputes and curbing the spread of misinformation that could incite tension within the community.
Reiterating his stance, Ejide said he harbours no ill will against anyone and would never be involved in any act capable of undermining the peace of Ogbomoso.
In their separate remarks, representatives of the Nurudeen Society and the Ansarudeen Muslim Society described him as a generous and selfless individual committed to the growth and wellbeing of the community. They commended his philanthropic efforts, particularly his contributions to education through infrastructural support, business initiatives, and scholarship programmes at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology and the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede.
The event featured prayers, goodwill messages, entertainment, and the serving of assorted meals and refreshments, with guests also receiving gifts as part of the evening’s activities.
