The Oyo State Government’s Interfaith Office on Monday played host to prominent Christian leaders and political stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Christian Forum as part of efforts geared towards taking the new political platform down to the grassroots.
This was as the group formally announced its transformation into the APM Christian Forum while declaring its support for Governor Seyi Makinde’s Presidential bid and other candidates vying for different elective offices ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The strategic meeting, held on Tuesday in the Conference Room of the Oyo State SSG, in Ibadan, had in attendance clerics, Christian leaders, political associates and members of the former PDP Christian Forum.
The Forum said the transformation was aimed at broadening the group’s scope beyond partisan boundaries while sustaining its commitment to promoting good governance, religious harmony and sustainable development in Oyo State.
Speaking at the event, the Special Assistant on Interfaith Matters, to Governor Makinde, Reverend Femi Ibikunle, commended the initiative, describing it as a positive step toward strengthening unity among people of different religious and political backgrounds.
According to him, the Interfaith Office remains committed to promoting and deepening peaceful coexistence, mutual understanding and collaboration among citizens irrespective of religious affiliations, stressing that development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and inclusiveness.
Leaders of the newly transformed APM Christian Forum explained that the decision to transform from the PDP Christian Forum was informed by the need to create a broader platform capable of engaging people from diverse political, social and religious backgrounds.
They noted that while the forum was initially established to mobilise support for the PDP and its programmes, the new association would focus on promoting progressive ideals, good governance and leadership accountability.
The group, however, expressed satisfaction with the performance of Governor Makinde, citing achievements in infrastructure development, education, healthcare, security and economic expansion across the state.
In a communique issued at the end of the meeting, members unanimously endorsed Makinde’s leadership style and pledged continued support for individuals they described as credible candidates committed to advancing the state’s development agenda.
The association maintained that Governor Makinde’s administration had demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusive governance, religious tolerance and equitable distribution of developmental projects across the state’s geopolitical zones.
“We have carefully observed the trajectory of governance in Oyo State over the years and we are convinced that Governor Seyi Makinde has provided purposeful leadership that has translated into visible development across sectors,” the communique stated.
Members also lauded the governor’s support for religious harmony through the activities of the Interfaith Office, describing the initiative as a model for peaceful coexistence in a plural society.
The event featured prayers for the peace, unity and prosperity of Oyo State and Nigeria, while participants urged political actors to embrace issue-based campaigns as preparations gather momentum for the 2027 elections.
They equally prayed for the safety of the abducted teachers and pupils at Oriire local government in Ogbomoso.
The Christian political leaders at the meeting called on residents to remain vigilant against divisive tendencies capable of undermining the state’s hard-earned peace, emphasizing that development and democratic progress can only flourish where unity prevails.
Participants renewed their commitment to continue engaging stakeholders, promoting peaceful political participation and supporting policies they believe will enhance the welfare of the people.