I’m a Practising Muslim, But I Support Adekanmbi/Salawu Ticket – Sheikh Akande Replies Aare Musulumi

-Calls on Makinde’s Aide on Islamic Affairs to promote religious tolerance

-Cites Muslim political victories in US, Osun as evidence against religious bigotry

An Ibadan-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Lateef Akande, has declared his support for the Adekanmbi/Salawu governorship ticket in Oyo State, insisting that competence, character, credibility and visionary leadership, rather than religious affiliation, should determine the choice of the next governor.

Akande, who described himself as a practising Muslim, made the position known on Friday while reacting to a statement attributed to the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, reportedly urging Muslims to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Oba Sharafadeen Alli, on the grounds of his religious identity.

The cleric faulted the alleged endorsement, arguing that religious leaders should exercise caution in their public pronouncements, particularly in a multi-religious society where members of the same family often practise different faiths.

He maintained that religion should not be used as a yardstick for determining political support, stressing that leadership positions should be based on competence, capacity, credibility and character.

Citing political developments in the United States, Akande referred to Abdul El-Sayed’s reported electoral victory in Michigan, describing it as an example of how voters could look beyond religious considerations in choosing their leaders.

He argued that political participation and electoral success should not be restricted by religious identity, adding that the electorate should be allowed to make choices based on candidates’ ideas, policies and leadership abilities.

Akande further stressed that political power ultimately comes from Allah, noting that no amount of financial inducement, political propaganda or campaign of calumny could override the will of God.

He also recalled the recent Osun governorship election, where, according to him, attempts to introduce religious considerations into the contest did not prevent Governor Ademola Adeleke from securing support from both Muslim and Christian voters.

The cleric equally cited the emergence of Zohran Mamdani as Mayor of New York, saying the development further demonstrated the need for political tolerance and the rejection of religious prejudice.

He called on the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Abdul-Rasheed Abdul-Azeez; the Chairman of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Sheikh Hashim Atere; and other Islamic leaders in the state to speak more forcefully on the Islamic teachings of tolerance, unity and peaceful coexistence.

According to him, religious leaders have a responsibility to promote the true values of Islam rather than allow religion to become an instrument of political division and manipulation.

Akande also urged the people of Oyo State to reject religious bigotry and embrace issue-based politics, insisting that the Adekanmbi/Salawu ticket represents inclusivity, innovation and a commitment to the development of the state, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences.

He added that Oyo State had a long-standing tradition of religious harmony and mutual respect, warning against attempts by politicians to introduce divisive religious narratives capable of undermining the peace and unity enjoyed by residents.