The Oyo State Government has called on residents of the state to sustain the spirit of peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and unity beyond the celebration of Eid el Kabir, warning that insecurity and political tension ahead of the 2027 general elections must not be allowed to divide the people.
The call was made by the Special Assistant on Interfaith Affairs to governor Seyi Makinde, Reverend Femi Ibikunle, in a statement on Friday to celebrate Muslim faithful across the state.
This was as he urged residents to endeavor to be their brother’s keepers by watching over one another within neighborhoods and communities across the state while embracing the attitude of selflessness towards protecting collective interests.
This appeal came following reports that some members of the affected communities particularly in Esinele, Oriire local government, where students and teachers have been abducted into captivity, worked with the terrorists as local informants.
He called on religious leaders across the state to intensify prayers and supplications to God for the immediate release and safe return of the victims to their various families stressing that no human being should ever be subjected to such experience.
The clergy cum politician condemned what he called internal saboteurs by people who do not care about others or the consequences of their actions once their personal interests are already taken care of.
He maintained that until Christians, Muslims, and Traditional worshippers begin to genuinely embrace themselves as one in humanity, it may become difficult for government to win the war against terror.
He added that it would have become near impossible for external aggressors to invade local communities in such bloody manner and successfully carry out such criminal act without local collaborators who care less about the sanctity and sacredness of human life.
He stressed the need for Christians, Muslims and adherents of traditional religions to continue to work together in safeguarding the peace and stability currently enjoyed across the state.
While felicitating Muslim faithful across the state on the successful celebration of Eid el Kabir, Ibikunle noted that the values of sacrifice, love, mutual understanding and compassion associated with the festival should remain guiding principles for residents for every day life, particularly as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next election cycle.
The office stated that maintaining harmony among various religious and ethnic groups had become more important in view of growing security concerns across parts of the country, adding that Oyo State must continue to distinguish itself as a model of tolerance and peaceful living.
According to the statement, political actors, community leaders and religious bodies must avoid divisive rhetoric capable of heating up the polity or creating unnecessary tension among citizens.
Ibikunle added that elections should not be seen as a do-or-die affair, urging politicians and their supporters to embrace issue-based engagements and shun violence before, during and after the 2027 elections.
The Interfaith Office further appealed to religious leaders to continue preaching moderation, patience and national unity from their pulpits.
He noted that faith-based institutions remain critical stakeholders in promoting peace and discouraging extremism, hate speech and political intolerance.
“Eid el Kabir teaches sacrifice, obedience, compassion and love for humanity. These values must not end with the celebration alone.
“At a time when the nation is facing different security challenges and political anxieties ahead of another election season, Nigerians must consciously promote peace, tolerance and understanding,” the statement said.
The office also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information capable of preventing criminal activities in their communities.
While congratulating Muslim faithful on the celebration, the office prayed for continued peace, economic stability and sustainable development in Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
Ibikunle equally commended the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde for consistently promoting religious harmony and inclusive governance in the state, and prayed for divine wisdom that will guide security operation towards tlan immediate release of the victims in captivity.