Aiyedatiwa Declares Ikare Central Mosque Open, Calls for Unity at 2026 Iftar
… Says all benefits will be equitably administered as dividends of democracy
… Nabbed over 99 kidnap suspects in Ondo
The Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has officially declared the Ikare Central Mosque open for worship following the resolution of a prolonged leadership dispute, describing the development as a significant step towards peace and unity in Ondo State.
The Ikare-Akoko Central Mosque was closed on October 18, 2022, following intense conflicts in the town, in order to prevent violence and manage a leadership dispute between the Chief Imam and the local Muslim council.
The governor made the announcement while addressing government officials, security chiefs, religious leaders, and members of the public at the 2026 Ramadan iftar hosted for Muslim faithful at the Dome in Akure.
Declaring the mosque reopened, Aiyedatiwa commended community and religious leaders in Ikare for their commitment to dialogue and reconciliation, noting that their efforts restored harmony and paved the way for the resumption of congregational prayers.
He confirmed that the Chief Imam, Alhaji Sheikh Muhammed Abbas Abubakar, would return to lead worshippers, marking a new chapter for the Muslim community in the area.
“This reopening is not just about a place of worship; it is a symbol of unity, understanding, and the triumph of peace over division,” the governor said.
He described Ramadan as a period of reflection, spiritual renewal, and moral awakening, urging residents to embrace compassion, integrity, and peaceful coexistence.
He also called for strengthened religious tolerance across the state, emphasising that Ondo’s diversity remains a source of strength.
Highlighting the coincidence of Ramadan and Lent, Aiyedatiwa described it as a divine reminder of shared values between Muslims and Christians, encouraging mutual respect and collaboration among all faiths.
On governance, the governor reassured the Muslim community of continued inclusion in government appointments and decision-making processes, stressing that fairness and due process guide promotions within the civil service.
“Our administration remains committed to ensuring that no community feels excluded,” he stated, adding that the benefits of governance would be equitably distributed.
He also commended security agencies for their role in maintaining peace across the state and urged citizens to support ongoing efforts to curb insecurity.
Aiyedatiwa encouraged residents to carry the virtues of Ramadan—patience, empathy, and moral courage—beyond the holy month, while praying for sustained peace, unity, and prosperity in Ondo State.
“May the spirit of this holy month remain with us throughout the year. Ramadan Mubarak,” he said.
The governor also disclosed that security agencies in the state have arrested over 99 criminal suspects linked to kidnapping and other related offences, as part of intensified efforts to curb insecurity.
He commended the collaboration between government and security agencies, particularly under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, for their commitment to restoring peace across Ondo State.
He reiterated that security remains a shared responsibility, urging residents to continue supporting law enforcement authorities with credible information.
Governor Aiyedatiwa further assured citizens that his administration would not relent in sustaining peace and delivering the dividends of good governance, including improvements in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and economic opportunities.
While emphasising unity among religious and ethnic groups, he noted that ongoing security operations are already yielding tangible results, as evidenced by the arrests.
The governor maintained that his government remains focused and undeterred by political distractions, stressing that all policies and initiatives are geared towards ensuring safety, inclusivity, and prosperity for all residents of the state.
Delivering a lecture at the event, the Grand Mufti of Ondo State, Alhaji Sheikh Surajudeen Batuta Al-Adaby, emphasised that the behaviours practised during Ramadan reflect the way Almighty God expects people to live at all times.
He explained that God used three elements as a foundation for human conduct: the use of knowledge, symbolised by the pen and its ink, the act of giving, and devotion through prayer and fasting.
However, he stressed that while these acts are essential, good behaviour surpasses them all in importance, urging individuals to cultivate character that will leave lasting, positive legacies in their communities.
Highlighting practical steps, Batuta outlined four key behaviours people should adopt, including monitoring one’s speech to avoid harmful or careless words and upholding truthfulness as a pathway to earning respect. He further noted that leadership is not merely defined by holding a position but by demonstrating responsibility and good character.
In his goodwill message, the Chief Imam of Akure Kingdom, Alhaji Sheikh AbdulHakeem Yayi Akorede, called on the Ondo State government to give greater consideration to the Muslim community, despite acknowledging the achievements of His Excellency.
Akorede commended several developmental strides recorded in Ondo State, noting that many citizens have expressed satisfaction with the progress, but that the Muslim community believes it deserves more inclusion and representation in governance.
While declaring that he is the Grand Patron of the League of Imams and Alfas in the state, Akorede urged the governor to critically review issues affecting Muslim participation, particularly the removal of Muslim contestants during election periods.
He emphasised that there are many capable Muslims who can contribute meaningfully to leadership and development, calling for fairness and inclusivity.
Earlier, the State Chairman of the Muslim Welfare Board, Alhaji Engr. Dikrullahi Adam Chandy, appreciated the governor for organising the iftar and for his presence at the ceremony.
He also thanked all Muslim faithfuls and the governor’s cabinet, among others, for gracing the occasion.
