By Jubril Bada

The Chief Imam of Akure Kingdom, Alhaji Abdulhakeem Yayi-Akorede, has made a clarion call for closer collaboration between government, religious leaders, and traditional rulers, describing the synergy as a vital force for sustainable development and peaceful coexistence.

Speaking at the 2025 Eid-el-Adha prayers held on Friday at the Akure Central Praying Ground, the cleric stressed that the trio of political, religious and traditional institutions hold the key to social harmony and the overall advancement of society.

Yayi-Akorede highlighted the distinct but complementary roles of the three leadership structures, saying, “While the governor provides law and governance, the traditional ruler mediates disputes within the community, and the religious leader offers moral guidance to the people.”

He argued that a united front among these leaders could effectively prevent communal unrest, reduce ethnic and religious tensions, and facilitate swift resolution of crises at the grassroots.

The well-attended prayer gathering was graced by the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, and the Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Dr Gbenga Fasua.

Describing religious and traditional leaders as powerful influencers at the grassroots level, the Imam said their alignment with the government enhances citizen mobilisation and ensures smoother implementation of people-oriented policies.

He said, “Religious leaders shape the moral compass of the society. Our voices can help drive reform and progress when aligned with the vision of governance.”

Yayi-Akorede urged Muslim faithful to support all tiers of government for the collective progress of Ondo State and Nigeria at large.

The cleric also lauded the state governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for completing the Oda Road project initiated by his predecessor, the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. He noted that the people of Akure deeply appreciated the gesture, alongside other road projects delivered by the current administration.

He advised the governor to remain accessible to the people, noting that an open-door policy would foster trust and help address potential challenges before they escalate.

On the essence of the Eid-el-Adha celebration, Yayi-Akorede expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for sparing the lives of the Muslim Ummah to witness another edition of the festival.

He enjoined worshippers to spread the joy of the occasion beyond the prayer ground by extending kindness and charity to their neighbours in the spirit of the season.