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Aiyedatiwa reassures Ondo Muslims of continued rights, representation

By Adedotun Ajayi

The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has assured Muslims across the state that they won’t be deprived of their rights, reaffirming his commitment to upholding equal rights for all residents, regardless of religious differences.

Speaking at The Dome on Thursday, where the Ondo State Muslim community formally endorsed his election bid, the governor expressed appreciation for their steadfast support and prayers, which he noted have strengthened the administration since the tenure of his predecessor.

Pix: Ayodele Suberu

Governor Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the contributions of Muslims in his administration, highlighting that while many Muslims currently hold political appointments, his government will continue to do more.

He emphasised that his administration values inclusivity, pledging that everyone will receive equal rights, irrespective of religious differences.

The event was marked by expressions of solidarity from prominent Muslim leaders, each affirming their support for the governor’s election.

Chief Jamiu Ekungba, Baba Adinni of Owo Kingdom, said, “As we stood by President Tinubu during the presidential election, we are ready to do the same for Governor Aiyedatiwa. Let the governor be rest assured that the Muslim community is behind him. People once thought Muslims stayed out of politics, but with Governor Aiyedatiwa, we are prepared to be fully involved.”

Ekungba added, “Our support will not be limited to prayers alone; we will actively campaign and mobilise to ensure victory for the governor come November 16.”

The Grand Mufti of Ondo State, Alhaji Surajudeen Batuta, echoed his support, calling Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership divinely guided.

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“I believe it is God’s plan that Governor Aiyedatiwa should lead this state during this period. This election will be the most peaceful election, by God’s grace, and I am confident that the governor’s decision to appoint Muslims into political offices will bring positive results. He will not regret it,” he said.

Also, in his goodwill message, HRM Oba Yussuf Adebori Adeleye, the Olubaka of Oka Land, joined in the appeals, requesting the recruitment of more Arabic teachers to strengthen Islamic education while advocating for government-funded schools.

“We do not support the idea of returning schools to religious bodies; we want the government to continue funding them,” he said.

Additionally, he urged the governor to uphold Muslim students’ rights to wear the hijab, adding, “On the matter of hijab in schools, we plead with you, Your Excellency, not to deny Islamic students this right,” he added.

Chief Imam of Akure, Sheikh Dr Abdulhakeem Yayi Akorede, called for increased Muslim representation in government, emphasising the community’s readiness to support the administration.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa participates in praise night with Christians. We appeal for a designated day for the Muslim community as well, so we can regularly pray for the governor and his leadership,” he said.

The Chief Imam of Akure, speaking on behalf of Imam Aladesawe Ahmed, Chairman of the League of Imams and Alfas in Ondo State, expressed the community’s united support.

“On behalf of all Muslims in Ondo State, I assure the governor that the entire Muslim community stands solidly behind him,” he declared.

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Highlights of the event included the presentation of a Performance of Excellence award to Governor Aiyedatiwa and the launch of an empowerment initiative, providing sewing machines, clippers, and grinding machines to support economic self-reliance within the Muslim community.

In attendance were Deputy Governor Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government Tayo Oluwatuyi, APC State Chairman Ade Adetimehin, religious leaders, among others.

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