Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde, has called on Nigerians to shun divisive tendencies ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging citizens to prioritise unity and peaceful coexistence over ethnic, religious and political differences.
Makinde made the appeal on Wednesday while receiving Islamic leaders from across the state at his Ikolaba private residence in Ibadan shortly after the Eid-el-Kabir prayers and Salah homage.
The governor noted that the next few months would witness intense political activities as political parties and stakeholders begin preparations for the 2027 elections, warning against acts capable of heating up the polity.
According to him, Nigerians must reject ethnic profiling, religious intolerance and indecorous political conduct in order to sustain peace and stability in the country.
“The next eight months or so, will come with electioneering activities that will shape the future leadership of our state and country but we must not allow politics to divide us along ethnic or religious lines,” Makinde said.
He added that the people should rather focus on the things that unite them and continue to promote harmony across the nation.
In a lighter moment during the gathering, the governor joked that the 2027 Salah homage at his residence would come in two folds, as Islamic leaders would also be paying homage to Bimbo Adekanbi as the governor-elect.
“The last Salah homage here as a sitting governor in 2027 will be in two folds because you will also have to pay homage to the governor-elect,” he said jokingly, drawing laughter from the gathering.
Speaking earlier on behalf of the Muslim leaders, renowned Islamic scholar, K. K. Oloso commended Makinde for what he described as dignified and honourable leadership in Oyo State.
Oloso expressed appreciation to the governor for inclusive governance and carrying the burden of leadership with commitment despite prevailing socioeconomic and security challenges.
In his vote of thanks, the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Abdulroheem Adebayo Lawal, praised Makinde for providing what he termed consistent, exceptional and robust leadership in the state for about seven years now.
Lawal said the governor had continued to demonstrate uncommon dedication to governance despite mounting security concerns and economic pressures facing the country.
“I wonder how the governor manages to find time to rest considering the enormous responsibility of governing the state at a time like this,” he said.
The deputy governor further disclosed that Makinde had barely enjoyed up to eight hours of sleep nightly since the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.
He urged residents of the state to continue praying for the governor, his administration and the sustained peace and security of Oyo State.