By Adedotun Ajayi

The Governor of Ondo State, Hon.Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has urged the Muslim community in the state to use the Holy Month of Ramadan as an opportunity to pray for peace, security, and national stability, emphasising the power of prayers in shaping a prosperous future.

Speaking at the 2025 Governor’s Iftar Programme with Muslim held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Akure on Tuesday, the governor expressed his gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting the grace to witness another Ramadan, describing the period as a time of spiritual reflection, self-purification, and renewed faith.

“The Holy Month of Ramadan is a sacred period for Muslims to rekindle their faith, seek forgiveness, and strive for spiritual growth. As we observe this fasting season, I urge our revered clerics to offer special prayers for divine guidance, protection, and peace for our country,” Aiyedatiwa said.

Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the numerous socio-economic and security challenges confronting the nation, including banditry, kidnapping, and ethnic violence, stressing that while the government is actively addressing these issues, divine intervention remains crucial.

“Nigeria is at a critical juncture in our nationhood, facing several challenges. While the Federal and Subnational Governments are tackling these issues decisively, we must seek Allah’s intervention to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free year 2025,” he stated.

The governor also urged the gathering to combat misinformation and fake news, warning that false narratives can fuel panic and societal unrest.

“I implore you to continue preaching against the menace of fake news, unnecessary alarms, and the activation of unwarranted panic mode. These have far-reaching consequences on our society,” he cautioned.

The governor appreciated the Muslim community for their unwavering support and prayers for his administration, assuring them that his government remains committed to delivering the dividends of good governance despite global economic challenges.

“In line with our policy thrust, our interventions are positively impacting various sectors, including infrastructure development, security, healthcare, youth employment, and empowerment,” he noted.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to religious harmony, emphasising that both Christians and Muslims in the state are treated with fairness and inclusivity.

“We have maintained a harmonious relationship with adherents of both major religions in the state, ensuring that the needs and welfare of all citizens are addressed without discrimination,” Aiyedatiwa assured.

On security, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to flush out criminal elements operating in the state, stating that the state will not be a safe haven for criminals disguising as farmers or herders.

“The security and welfare of our people shall remain a priority. We will not allow Ondo State to become a hideout for criminals. While we welcome all law-abiding Nigerians who wish to live and do legitimate business in our state, there shall be no room for those using our forests as cover for criminal activities,” he declared.

He urged all citizens to remain united in building a peaceful and prosperous Ondo State, emphasising that collaboration and mutual respect among all ethnic and religious groups are crucial for progress.

“As we break our fast together tonight, let us reaffirm our commitment to peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and mutual respect. We must continue to work together to build a more prosperous, secure, and harmonious Ondo State,” he added.

During his welcome address, the Chairman of the Ondo State Muslim Welfare Board, Zikrullah Adam Chandy, described this year’s iftar with Mr Governor as particularly significant.

He noted that the Iftar holds special meaning as it comes just a month after Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa was sworn in for a new administration, making it a moment of reflection and renewed commitment.

He expressed deep appreciation to the governor for his unwavering commitment to education across the state and for his efforts in ensuring the welfare of the Muslim community.

Chandy also reaffirmed the Muslim community’s loyalty and obedience to the government, as enjoined by Islamic teachings.

Delivering a lecture at the Iftar gathering, the Grand Mufti of Ondo State and Fakhrul-Ulamai of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta, Alhaji Surajudeen Batuta, emphasised the shared humanity between Muslims and non-Muslims, stating that all people are children of the same mother and should coexist in harmony.

He further urged the attendees to embrace responsibility in all aspects of life, stressing that it is the foundation of success and progress.

The Grand Mufti also commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, attributing the state’s progress and answered prayers to the governor’s compassionate and selfless nature.

He encouraged the gathering to continue praying for the state’s development and to uphold the values of peace, integrity, and communal harmony.

In his goodwill message, the Grand Imam of the Akure Empire, Alhaji AbdulHakeem Yayi -Akorede, lauded fovernor for his proactive leadership and swift actions since assuming office.

He noted that the governor had wasted no time in making key decisions that have accelerated government activities, particularly through the timely appointment of major government officials, ensuring smooth governance and continuity.

He also commended the governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare, highlighting his dedication to ensuring that salaries are paid promptly, which has helped maintain stability and motivation within the state’s workforce.

Furthermore, the cleric expressed gratitude to the governor for his approval of new teacher employment across the state, a move that will strengthen the education sector and address workforce shortages in schools.

He also acknowledged the governor’s efforts in enhancing infrastructure, citing the provision of a firefighting truck for Akure Airport, which significantly improves safety standards and emergency response capabilities at the facility.

He emphasised that these bold and impactful initiatives, alongside several other positive developments witnessed in the state within the short period since the governor’s inauguration, reflect a visionary and people-centered leadership.

The grand imam encouraged the governor to continue on this path, assuring him of the support and prayers of the Muslim community for the success of his administration.

In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, State Chairman of APC, Engr Ade Adetimehin, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, a member representing Ese-Odo/Ilaje federal constituency, Hon. Donald Ojogo, members of Ondo State House of Assembly, members of the state executive council, heads of security agencies, local government chairmen, permanent secretaries, political appointees, traditional rulers, religious leaders, among other top government functionaries.