Aiyedatiwa Reopens Ikare Central Mosque, Preaches Unity at State Iftar
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has formally reopened the Central Mosque in Ikare, bringing an end to longstanding disputes surrounding the worship centre and signalling a new phase of religious harmony in the community.
The governor made the announcement on Tuesday during an Iftar with Muslim faithful held at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, where he urged residents across faiths to embrace peace, tolerance and mutual respect.
Describing Ramadan as a period of reflection and moral renewal, Aiyedatiwa said the reopening of the mosque was made possible through the intervention of key stakeholders, including the Olukare of Ikare, the Grand Mufti and the Chief Imam, who he confirmed would lead prayers at the mosque.
He called on citizens to go beyond fasting and prayers by demonstrating compassion, integrity and generosity in their daily interactions, stressing that unity remains critical to the state’s development.
According to him, the coincidence of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season underscores the need for stronger interfaith harmony, noting that Ondo’s diversity should be seen as a source of strength rather than division.
Addressing concerns raised by Muslim leaders on civil service promotions, the governor explained that the process is guided by seniority to maintain fairness and morale within the system. He assured that eligible officers on Grade Level 16 would attain the position of permanent secretary in due course.
On security, Aiyedatiwa disclosed that over 99 suspected criminals had been arrested in connection with kidnapping cases across the state, warning against staged abductions for ransom. He also dismissed reports of bandit activity in Ondo, clarifying that security agencies are focused on tackling kidnappers.
He urged communities, particularly in rural areas, to support security efforts by providing timely information and refusing to harbour criminal elements.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to sustaining development initiatives in key sectors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure and economic growth.
Earlier, Chairman of the Ondo Muslim Welfare Board, Alhaji Zikrullah Adam Chandy, commended the governor for hosting the Iftar, describing it as an avenue for engagement between the government and the Muslim community.
In a lecture at the event, Sheikh Batuta Al-Adaby emphasised the importance of good character, noting that acts of worship must not foster division but promote truthfulness, gratitude and responsible leadership.
Also speaking, the Chief Imam of Akure, Sheikh Abdulhaheem Yayi-Akorode, acknowledged the governor’s efforts while calling for greater inclusion of Muslims in political appointments and representation, particularly ahead of the forthcoming House of Assembly elections.
The Iftar gathering brought together Muslim leaders, government officials and stakeholders in a show of unity and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence in the state.
