The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo state chapter has berated Governor Seyi Makinde’s comment at the commissioning of the newly constructed Adogba Mosque in Ibadan which the body said downplayed its firm support and efforts towards his successful reelection.
A statement by the Oyo state CAN Chairman, Apostle Joshua Akinyemiju and made available to journalists in Ibadan on Friday November 17 by his Personal Assistant and Director of Media, Dr Olamide Olanrewaju described the statement as ’embarrassing and unfortunate.’
The statement recalled that Governor Makinde, while delivering his address at the Mosque commissioning yesterday, was quoted as saying: “Today I can tell the entire world that I got 70 percent of my reelection votes from the Muslim community in Oyo state.”
Expressing its displeasure at the Governor’s statement, Oyo CAN said the christian body remained firmly behind Makinde not only because he is Christian but due to his impressive performance during his first term of office.
Oyo CAN lamented that despite its firm support and efforts towards Makinde’s reelection, fact checking and independent research were already being replaced with political calculations and what it described as ‘figure jumping’, saying it was embarrassing to see these in places where least expected.
While noting that such statement was capable of causing disaffection in the state, Oyo CAN however, called for calm among the Christian body stressing the need to continue on its path of peace building in the face of the undeserved statement.
The statement read: “The attention of the Christian Community in Oyo State has been drawn to a publication with the above caption. The statement which was allegedly credited to His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Sa’ad Makinde at the Commissioning of Adogba Ultra Modern Mosque in Ibadan.
“It is unfortunate to note that fact checking and independent research has been replaced with political calculations and figure jumping; it is more embarrassing to see these in places where it is least expected.
“When religion is weaponized and deployed into politics based on sentiments without a careful thought of the consequences, it result into crises that may in turn cause instability in the terrain.
“If we go down to memory lane, a statement was made by Professor Ishaq Akintola of the Muslim Right Concern whence he advised the Muslim Community in Oyo State not to re-elect the Governor because of an allegation that he did not permit Hijab.
“In spite of all the threats, the Christian Community who understood that good governance is beyond religion, stood firm and voted overwhelmingly for their choice, being one of their own. Surprisingly, they have suddenly come to realize that their choice candidate classified their votes as minority and worthless. It is so disheartening, demoralizing and undeserving.
“The Christian Community in Oyo State has been known for peace building, peace keeping and for always supporting one of their own. It is worrisome that the statement allegedly credited to His Excellency is inciting, does not glorify God and capable of causing disaffection in the State.
“The Chairman CAN Oyo State has directed that, in the interest of the prevailing peaceful co-existence in the State, irrespective of the concerns of the Christian faithfuls regarding the Headline, the body of Christ should take the pronouncements with philosophical calmness bearing no grudge. To that extent, all are enjoined to remain law abiding and tolerant. Our Father in Heaven will reward our labour of love in Jesus name.”
