The governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has said that he will continue to work towards religious tolerance, unity, and harmonious co-existence in the state.
Makinde made the statement on Friday, September 23, 2022, at the donation of two 18-seater buses to Sabo Central Mosque, Ibadan, and the Jama’atu Izalatul Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), also operating in Sabo, Ibadan.
The governor was represented by the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dawud Akinola.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, the governor said that the donation was a fulfilment of the promise he had made, adding that it would in no small measure enhance religious activities of the mosque.
The statement indicated further that the buses were presented to the Chief Imam of Sabo Central Mosque, Imam Seheedu Abubakar, quoting the governor as saying: “As you can see, this is marvellous and this is an appreciation to humanity, to religious leaders. Sabo has two central mosques and we have remembered both of them by rewarding them with these two buses.
“Before now, we presented a bus to our father, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland. There were also two buses to Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria – one for Oyo State branch and the other for the national chapter.
“As a government, the administration is promoting religious harmony by reaching out to Muslims and Christians as well.
“We understand that our people here have been expecting this for long, and I am happy that it is happening today and everyone is happy with it.”
Receiving the vehicles on behalf of the congregation, the Chief Imam, Sabo Central Mosque, Imam Seheedu Abubakar, appreciated the governor for his commitment to religious harmony and for always having the interest of the people at heart.
