Religious division failed in Oyo, Makinde says at Hijrah celebration
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde celebrated the Islamic Hijrah 1448/2026, calling for continued religious harmony.
- Makinde stated that attempts to divide the state along religious lines had failed due to support from Muslims, Christians, traditional worshippers, and non-believers.
- This marks his final Hijrah celebration as governor, and he prayed for a peaceful successor prioritizing the people's welfare.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde marked the Islamic Hijrah 1448/2026 with Muslim faithful, using the occasion to advocate for sustained religious harmony within the state. During his annual leave, Makinde addressed the community, highlighting his administration's success in resisting divisive religious agendas.
"Throughout our time in office, all attempts to divide our dear state along religious lines failed," Makinde stated on X. He attributed this success to the collective support from Muslims, Christians, traditional worshippers, and individuals who do not adhere to any specific faith in Oyo State, expressing his deep gratitude.
Throughout our time in office, all attempts to divide our dear state along religious lines failed. And this was because of the support from Muslims, Christians, traditional worshippers and those who do not adhere to any faith in Oyo State. We remain eternally grateful for this.
This year's celebration holds particular significance as it represents Makinde's final Hijrah observance during his tenure as governor, which is set to conclude in 2027. He conveyed wishes for a prosperous and peaceful Islamic New Year to all residents.
Looking ahead, Makinde offered prayers for the incoming administration, hoping it will maintain peace and prioritize the welfare of the people of Oyo State. "I also prayed that the government which succeeds us will be a peaceful one; a government where decisions will be taken in the best interests of the good people of Oyo State," he concluded.
As this is my last Hijrah celebration as governor, I wished everyone a prosperous and peaceful year. I also prayed that the government which succeeds us will be a peaceful one; a government where decisions will be taken in the best interests of the good people of Oyo State.
Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.