Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his commitment to upholding fairness in religious affairs as a means of promoting harmony and unity among the diverse religious groups in the state.
He emphasised his dedication to fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding among adherents of different faiths.
Governor Oyebanji also assured the Muslim community that he remains steadfast in honouring the trust they have placed in him.
He made these remarks on Friday during a special Jum’at Service at the Central Mosque, Oja Oba, Ado Ekiti, marking the second anniversary of his administration.
Expressing his gratitude, the governor commended the Muslim leaders and faithful across Ekiti for their unwavering support. He pledged to accelerate development efforts across all sectors of the society for the remainder of his tenure.
Oyebanji also called on the Muslim community to continue embracing religious tolerance and interfaith harmony, which have been key in maintaining peace.
He stressed that this unity is essential not only for social cohesion but also for creating an atmosphere conducive to driving investments in the state.
“I am here to appreciate God and all Muslims for their support. Let me bring to your notice that none of those Muslims in my cabinet failed leadership tests, they all performed well, right from the Secretary to the State Government to the last person.
“Last time we came here, I pledged that flooding won’t affect this Mosque again, I thank God that we have redeemed our pledge. Let me assure you that whatever is due for you, I shall give you freely without you fighting for it.
“When things were tough, Muslims stood by me, they never said I am not their member. Whatever you have an interest in, I shall redeem it and make it possible for you. You said I have the best records in terms of appointments for Muslims, this is just the beginning, I shall do more by God’s grace.
“I want to assure you that we are going to serve you very well and zealously. We are supposed to serve you as leaders. You elected us and sent us on this journey so that we can serve you. I will never fail you. Muslim leaders, particularly the Grand Imam, have been so nice and steadfast in their support. I appreciate you”, Oyebanji said.
In his sermon, the President of the League of Imams and Alfas in Southwest, Edo, and Delta, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello, cautioned Muslim faithfuls against publicly criticizing or disrespecting their leaders for any perceived shortcomings.
Instead, the Islamic cleric urged them to offer prayers, asking for divine guidance to steer leaders towards integrity, compassion, transparency, and accountability.
Bello, who also serves as the Grand Imam of Ekiti State, commended the state governor for promoting religious harmony by appointing several Muslims to his cabinet, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
“We should pray for our leaders so that they can do more. The work they do is tasking and arduous. Governor Oyebanji is one Governor we should all pray for, he deserves our prayers. Our Governor is working hard, he didn’t allow us to be hungry the way God wishes.
“We have been having governors in this state, Governor Oyebanji is different. In character, mutual respect, philanthropy and humility, he is unique. You are leading well and other arms of government like the State Assembly are following in your footsteps. I want you to work harder. I am happy that you didn’t abandon your predecessors, that is how a leader should behave”, Bello stated.
