The Special Assistant on Interfaith Matters to the Oyo state Governor, Reverend Femi Ibikunle int has attributed religious harmony and enhanced peaceful coexistence among the three major religions to the good governance of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration.
Rev Ibikunle, who praised Governor Makinde’s administration for prioritizing and promoting an environment of peace and collaboration among different religions in the state said good governance under the present government has become a model other states can adopt to address and resolve interfaith challenges in their states.
The governor’s aide made this disclosure on Saturday, October 26, during a media chat with westernmirror.com.ng, where he highlighted and gave instances of the positive impact of good governance on social cohesion in the state.
Rev Ibikunle emphasized that Governor Makinde’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency without discrimination of any form to anybody on account of their religion or ethnicity has been critical in bridging gaps between the diverse religious communities in Oyo State.
He disclosed further that since assumption of office, governor Makinde has continued to implement policies that encourage dialogue and understanding among various religious faiths while promoting a spirit of cooperation that has a strong sense of unity throughout the state.
The Special Adviser on Interfaith Affairs noted that other state governments still struggling to entrench the culture of interfaith harmony should take a cue from governor Makinde’s administration in Oyo state.
In his words: “the Governor’s approach to governance emphasizes respect for all religions, while ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
“This laudable approach by the governor has led to the establishment of platforms where religious leaders can discuss pressing societal issues and paving the way for joint initiatives that address common challenges such as poverty, education, and security.
“Governor Makinde is not just a visionary leader, he is specially a solution provider to age-long societal challenges that past governments, not only in Oyo state but other parts of Nigeria, struggled with.
“Having the Christian and Muslim communities, as well as the African Tradition worshipers constantly having joint activities geared towards peaceful coexistence and interfaith harmony under the present government of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde has been one of the greatest intangible achievements that history will credit the governor for.
“Apart from regular interfaith events supported by the state government, which have greatly advanced friendships beyond religious boundaries and mutual respect among the various faiths, the annual celebration of ‘Isese’ Day is a clear testament to the fact that we can all practice our religions without trampling on one another’s rights.
“In fact, I can say without mincing words that the commitment of governor Seyi Makinde to social welfare programs has further reinforced the bond among the three main religions in the state.
“Collaborative projects and programs targeted at improving education, conscious awareness, and youth empowerment have all witnessed active participation from various religious organizations, which has in turn reinforced the idea that shared goals can transcend religious boundaries.
“When we come together as a people, regardless of our different faiths, we create a stronger and more resilient society, and what Governor Seyi Makinde is doing in Oyo state already serves as a model for other states across Nigeria still struggling to engender interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence among their people.”