MAKINDE, OLUBADAN CALL FOR RELIGIOUS HARMONY AS LENT AND RAMADAN COMMENCE
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By: Balogun Ibrahim
Seyi Makinde, together with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, on Wednesday called on Nigerians to embrace unity, love, and religious harmony as the 2026 Ramadan and Lenten seasons commence.
The leaders conveyed their messages in Ibadan, the state capital, issuing separate goodwill statements to Muslims and Christians at the start of the fasting periods.
Governor Makinde, through a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olarenwaju, urged followers of both faiths to use the sacred season to deepen their devotion to God and commitment to humanity.
He said, “God Almighty is using the coincidence of the two fasting seasons to remind adherents of both religions of the importance of love, unity, and religious harmony, and this lesson must be upheld throughout the period.”
“I urge everyone to use the 2026 Ramadan and Lent fasting periods to offer prayers to God for the state, the nation, and its leaders,” Governor Seyi Makinde said.
He also commended Muslims and Christians in the state for maintaining peaceful coexistence and supporting his administration since 2019, assuring residents that his government would continue to prioritise their welfare.
In his own message, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, urged both Christians and Muslims to devote the fasting period to prayers for Nigeria’s progress.
A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ayoade Olugbemiga, quoted the monarch as urging followers to reflect on the spiritual significance of Ramadan and Lent, emphasizing values such as sober reflection, forgiveness, discipline, kindness, and peaceful coexistence.
“The overlap of Ramadan and Lenten periods is not merely coincidental but a divine arrangement, meant to remind the world of the importance of unity, togetherness, love, religious tolerance, and mutual understanding among believers.
“Fasting goes beyond abstaining from food and drink; it also involves refraining from immoral behaviour, harmful speech, and hatred,” the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, stated.
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He urged Nigerians to pray for the nation’s leaders and seek divine guidance, especially as the country faces insecurity and other challenges.
In a similar message, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, called for religious tolerance and unity amid the nation’s security concerns.
In a statement released by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the monarch said, “Both seasons emphasise repentance, charity, and generosity, highlighting a shared commitment to serving the community and supporting the less fortunate.
“This period encourages Christians and Muslims to reflect on their common humanity, challenge stereotypes, and foster a culture of peace, particularly in diverse societies. The overlap serves as a reminder that faith can unite rather than divide, strengthening community bonds.”
Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, called on followers of both religions to show tolerance and reaffirm their dedication to peaceful coexistence, stressing that such values are crucial for national unity and stability.
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