19th April, 2023
By Bolanle Lawal
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti has hailed religious leaders in the state for the existing harmony among Muslim and Christian faithful in the state.
The governor stated this at the Iftaar (breaking of fast) he hosted for Muslim leaders and faithful across the state at Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado Ekiti.
Oyebanji, at the event attended by Muslim leaders, scholars, communities and political leaders, expressed appreciation for their support for his administration.
He called on them to maintain decorum and live in peace with adherents of other religions in the state.
The governor stated that the state enjoyed relative peace and tranquility which had become a reference point in the country.
He urged the Muslim leaders to use the opportunity of the holy month to offer fervent prayers to God, to grant all their hearts’ desires as well as for peace and prosperity of Ekiti State and Nigeria.
The governor said he remained grateful to the Muslim community for their support for him during the 2022 election and appealed for their continued support for his administration.
He noted the commendable performance of the Muslims serving in his government, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro and the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr Hakeem Jamiu, describing them as assets to the state.
“I will continue to consult with the leadership of Muslim community in Ekiti State as time goes by and my commitment to the Muslim community is rock solid, it will not waiver.
“I am also thanking you for allowing religious harmony to exist between Muslims and other religions.
“Ekiti state is one of the states in the country where we don’t have the problem of religion because we all are serving one God and we are shining example to other states.
“I’m extremely grateful for this religious harmony and I want us to keep it up.
“I know that in government positions, Muslims were not always adequately taken care of, but I will try my best to make an amend in that wise. I have assurance that Muslims are people of impeccable character, I don’t have any doubt about that.
“And since we started this administration, the Secretary to the State Government that you gave me has proved to be an asset to the administration,” Gov. Oyebanji said.
In their goodwill messages at the event, the Muslim leaders extolled the virtues of Oyebanji and commended his developmental strides.
They expressed appreciation to the governor for giving Muslims in the state a sense of belonging under his administration and assured him of their unalloyed support at all times.
Also in his lecture titled ‘The Trait of Leadership’, Prof. Musa Abdulraheem of Ekiti State University, thanked the governor for hosting the Iftaar and for according recognition to the Muslims by appointing them to key positions in his administration.
The event, which was also attended by a former Deputy Governor in the state, Dr Sikiru Lawal, and Muslim clerics and faithful across the 16 local government areas, featured prayers for Gov. Oyebanji, his administration and the state at large.
Also present were Deputy Speaker, Hakeem Jamiu; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro; President General, League of Imam and Alfas for Southwest, Edo and Delta, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere and President, Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Dr Afolabi Bakare.
(NAN)