The Okanlomo Oodua and Bada Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, on Tuesday led a coalition of prominent Muslim organizations to the residence of the Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Imam of Oyo State, Sheikh AbdulGaniy Abubakry Agbotomokekere, to intensify advocacy for the emergence of a Muslim Governor in Oyo State in 2027.
The visit was anchored on the principle of honoring agreements, as stakeholders emphasized that the aspiration for a Muslim governor is rooted in an understanding reached between Christian, Muslim and Traditional leaders in the build-up to the 2023 gubernatorial election that returned Governor Seyi Makinde for a second term.
According to the delegation, the Muslim community gave overwhelming support to Governor Makinde based on a widely acknowledged commitment that power would rotate to a Muslim in 2027 after the completion of his eight-year tenure.
The stakeholders maintained that keeping this agreement is essential to sustaining trust, promoting fairness, and preserving peaceful coexistence among all religious and political interests in Oyo State.
Sanusi: Agreements Are Sacred and Must Be Honoured
In his introductory remarks, Chief Sanusi said his advocacy is driven by a deep conviction that agreements are sacred and must be upheld.
He cited the Qur’anic injunction in Surah Al-Isra (17:34): “And fulfill every commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever that about which one will be questioned.”
He also referenced Biblical passages including Ecclesiastes 5:4–5 and Matthew 5:37, stressing that both Islam and Christianity place a high premium on integrity and faithfulness to one’s word.
Chief Sanusi noted that honoring agreements strengthens mutual confidence and reinforces the moral foundation of leadership.
Muslim Stakeholders: It Is the Turn of Muslims in 2027
Representatives of various Muslim organizations unanimously lent their voices to the advocacy, declaring that after Governor Makinde’s eight years in office, it is only fair and just that a competent Muslim be given the opportunity to lead Oyo State.
They stressed that the Muslim community is blessed with many capable, experienced, and visionary individuals who possess the competence, character, and leadership capacity to govern the state successfully.
The stakeholders therefore urged political leaders and all concerned parties to respect the understanding reached in 2023 and ensure that the agreement is honored in the interest of justice and equity.
Organizations represented at the meeting included:
- NASFAT
- NACOMYO
- Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at
- FOMWAN
- Muslim Youth Organization of Nigeria (MYON)
- Other Islamic societies and community leaders
Mogaji Basunnu Commends Sanusi’s Integrity
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Imam, Mogaji Basunnu, Alhaji Nurudeen Muhali, welcomed the delegation and described Chief Sanusi as a man known for honoring agreements and standing firmly by his word.
He said the Chief Imam had listened attentively to the concerns and aspirations presented and assured the visitors that their message had been clearly received.
He also offered prayers for Chief Sanusi and all those championing the cause.
Chief Imam Highlights the Importance of Agreement
In his remarks, Sheikh Agbotomokekere applauded the peaceful and respectful manner in which the advocacy was presented.
He delivered a brief sermon on the significance of agreements, stressing that society thrives when promises are kept and parties act in good faith.
The Grand Imam prayed for the success of all efforts aimed at promoting justice, peace, and unity in Oyo State, noting that the fulfillment of agreements remains a pathway to enduring harmony.
Other Islamic Leaders Present
Also present at the meeting were respected members of the Council of Imams, including:
- Alhaji Ismaheel Olaide Itamaya
- Alhaji Abdul Wasiu Adegbeye
The visit reinforced the growing consensus among Muslim stakeholders that the 2027 governorship election presents an opportunity to uphold a solemn agreement and promote fairness, inclusion, and mutual respect in Oyo State’s political landscape.
