Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has urged religious leaders to ensure peaceful co-existence among the adherents of different religions in the state.
The Governor gave the admonition on Sunday, 25 August, 2024, during the turbaning and installation ceremony of the new Chief Imam of Ijebu-Igbo, Ijebu North Local Government Area of the state, Sheikh Quasim Badejo, at the playground of the Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo palace.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, Governor Abiodun assured that his administration was poised to work with religious stakeholders towards promoting peace and tranquility, as well as consolidating the government’s achievements across the nooks and crannies of the state, since meaningful development could only be sustained in a conducive atmosphere.
He charged the newly installed Chief Imam to use his position to promote peaceful co-existence among other religions.
The Governor felicitated the Islamic cleric, saying his position was significant, as his conduct and disposition were capable of influencing the people positively or otherwise.
“I want to encourage you to use your office as the Chief Imam to inculcate in the people moral values and engender oneness among the people of Ijebu-Igbo and its environs, irrespective of religious affiliations,” he said.
Also speaking, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, while giving his royal blessings, expressed confidence that the newly installed Chief Imam would provide mentorship to the followers, promising to give the Imam a brand new car and build a befitting central mosque that would accommodate all the worshippers in Ijebu-North.
In his acceptance speech, Sheikh Badejo thanked Allah for the appointment, pledging to use the position to serve Allah, the Muslim faithful, and the residents of the town.
