Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday officially reopened the Central Mosque in Ikare, ending years of disputes and marking a milestone in the state’s religious life.
The reopening was announced during an Iftar for Muslim faithful at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, where the governor urged residents to embrace tolerance, respect, and harmony across communities.
Governor Aiyedatiwa described Ramadan as a period for reflection and moral renewal, noting that devotion goes beyond fasting to acts of generosity, integrity, and compassion. He credited the mosque’s reopening to the efforts of the Olukare of Ikare, the Grand Mufti, and the Chief Imam, who will now lead prayers at the facility.
“This Ramadan reminds us of peace, empathy, love, and compassion. I thank residents for their support. May Allah bless our Sunshine State,” he said.
The governor also highlighted the overlap of Ramadan with the Christian Lenten season, saying it serves as a divine reminder of unity among the state’s faiths. He assured the Muslim community that they remain key partners in governance and development.
Addressing civil service concerns, Aiyedatiwa explained that promotions are determined by seniority to protect experienced officers, warning that bypassing qualified staff could affect morale and service delivery.
On security, the governor confirmed that over 99 suspects linked to criminal acts had been arrested, condemning staged kidnappings and clarifying that there are no bandits in Ondo. He urged communities to cooperate with law enforcement to protect neighbourhoods and places of worship.
Alhaji Zikrullah Adam Chandy, Chairman of the Ondo Muslim Welfare Board, commended the governor for organising the Iftar, describing it as a rare opportunity for Muslims to meet, dine, and engage with the state leadership.
Alhaji Sheikh Batuta Al-Adaby emphasised that true worship includes good conduct, while Chief Imam of Akure, Sheikh Abdulhaheem Yayi-Akorode, urged the administration to give more consideration to Muslims in political and administrative appointments.
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