Olusegun Adeyemo
The Special Adviser to the Oyo State Governor on Interfaith Affairs, Rev. Femi Ibikunle, has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for establishing the Office of Interfaith Affairs, describing it as a unique initiative that has helped to foster religious harmony and lasting peace in the state.
Speaking in an interview with The Journal Nigeria, Rev. Ibikunle explained that the office was created in November 2019 to provide an inclusive platform where adherents of Islam, Christianity, and traditional religions could coexist peacefully and freely practice their faiths without discrimination.
According to him, Oyo remains the only state in Nigeria with a dedicated Office of Interfaith Affairs, while other states merely appoint special advisers on religion. He noted that the initiative has significantly reduced religious crises that had plagued communities in previous decades.
“Before this office was established, there were frequent agitations and clashes between religious groups. But today, by God’s grace, Oyo State has enjoyed over six years of relative peace because of the governor’s proactive leadership and inclusive policies,” Rev. Ibikunle said.
He highlighted several milestones achieved by the office, including bi-monthly stakeholders’ meetings with religious leaders, celebration of International Peace Day on September 21, and the institutionalization of August 20 as a public holiday in recognition of Isese Day for traditional worshippers.
Rev. Ibikunle further disclosed that Oyo State has hosted high-profile national interfaith dialogues, including meetings that brought together the Sultan of Sokoto and other prominent leaders under the umbrella of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC).
Emphasizing the importance of unity, he remarked: “Across the world, there are over 4,000 religions, but the three prominent ones are Islam, Christianity, and Traditional Religion. Though our approaches differ, we all serve one Supreme Being. Humanity must come before religion, because peace is only possible when we see each other as one family.”
The adviser noted that every official meeting in Oyo State now begins with three prayers—offered by Christians, Muslims, and traditionalists—symbolizing equality and mutual respect. He added that interfaith committees have also been established across the state’s 33 local government areas to strengthen collaboration at the grassroots level, especially in matters of security and community development.
Rev. Ibikunle concluded by reiterating Governor Makinde’s commitment to peace and inclusivity, describing him as a leader who has given every faith group a sense of belonging.
“Oyo State is enjoying peace today because we have a governor whose outlook, words, and actions are rooted in peace. The Office of Interfaith Affairs will continue to work tirelessly to sustain this harmony and ensure that no one is left behind,” he affirmed.