As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen peaceful coexistence and inter-religious harmony, Reverend Femi Ibikunle, the Special Assistant on Interfaith Affairs to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, has called on religious leaders across Oke-Ogun to champion unity, tolerance, and mutual respect among adherents of different faiths.
The call was made on Thursday, April 10 during an interfaith stakeholders forum held at the Teachers House in Atisbo local government, one of the key towns in the Oke-Ogun geopolitical zone, where clerics from Christian, Muslim, and traditional faith backgrounds gathered for a dialogue on peacebuilding and religious harmony.
Rev. Ibikunle, addressing the stakeholders, emphasized that religious leaders play a critical role in shaping societal values and promoting peaceful coexistence.
In his words: “Our dear pacesetter’s state, rich in culture and diversity, must not allow religious differences to divide us. We must instead use our platforms to preach peace, love, and understanding among our adherents.”
He lauded Governor Makinde’s inclusive governance and unrelenting commitment to religious freedom, describing the administration as one that “respects all faiths and believes in the power of unity to drive development.”
The meeting featured prayers, interactive sessions, and a joint declaration pledging continued collaboration among religious leaders to prevent conflict and promote community cohesion especially at the grassroots.
Other local government areas in the zone present at the meeting include Saki West, Saki East, Oorelope, Irepo, Itesiwaju, Kajola, Olorunsogo, Iwajowa and Iseyin.
Stakeholders also commended the ongoing initiative being championed by the governor’s aide, describing it as timely and essential for the growth and stability of Oke-Ogun and the state at large.
One of the prominent Islamic leaders in attendance, said, “This initiative reminds us that our shared humanity is greater than our differences. We must all be ambassadors of peace for us to sustain the developmental strides of governor Seyi Makinde.”
Also speaking, one of the Christian leaders highlighted the need for constant engagement among faith leaders to dispel misconceptions and foster trust.
Rev. Ibikunle assured the stakeholders that the interfaith office would continue to engage with grassroots religious leaders, support peace-driven programs, and ensure that Oyo State remains a model for religious tolerance in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Westernmirror.com.ng earlier reported that the governor’s aide had taken the advocacy for religious harmony and peaceful coexistence to other parts of the state including Oyo and Ogbomoso geopolitical zones comprising various local government areas.