Oyo State Governor, Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde, has urged residents to resist attempts to exploit religious differences for political gains ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring that religion must never become a source of division or conflict in the state.
Makinde, who made the appeal on Saturday at the opening of the three-day Rabitah 2026 Conference in Ibadan, also announced a donation of N50 million to support the conference organised by the League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland.
The event, held at the Jogor Events Centre, Ibadan, attracted Islamic clerics, traditional rulers, political leaders and other stakeholders.
Addressing the gathering, the governor emphasised the need for religious leaders and residents to sustain the tradition of religious tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence for which Oyo State is known, particularly as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections gather momentum.
He said: “We won’t allow religion to divide us. Let us pray for our state and our country because this is the period leading up to the next election, when a new set of leaders will emerge.”
Makinde noted that many families in Oyo State have both Muslims and Christians, stressing that religious differences should not undermine the bonds of ancestry, family and shared identity among the people.
Drawing from his personal experience, he said his own family reflects the longstanding interfaith relationships that characterise the state’s social structure.
“I want to appeal to all of us not to allow ourselves to be divided along religious lines because we share the same ancestry, and the same blood flows through our veins,” he added.
The governor urged religious leaders to intensify prayers for the peace, unity and prosperity of Oyo State and Nigeria, while using their positions of influence to encourage responsible civic engagement and peaceful participation in the democratic process.
He observed that the state’s development and collective progress should take precedence over political competition and divisive rhetoric.
Makinde also acknowledged the important role of religious institutions in shaping societal values, promoting understanding and sustaining peaceful relationships among different faith communities.
He expressed confidence that Oyo State would continue to serve as an example of religious harmony and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria, urging residents to protect the bonds that unite them as the country approaches another election cycle.
