Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday officially reopened the Central Mosque in Ikare, bringing an end to years of dispute and restoring a key place of worship in the community.
The reopening was announced during an Iftar gathering with Muslim faithful held at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, where the governor emphasised the importance of peace, tolerance, and unity among residents.
Speaking at the event, Aiyedatiwa described Ramadan as a sacred period for reflection, spiritual renewal, and moral rebirth. He attributed the successful reopening of the mosque to the collaborative efforts of the Olukare of Ikare, the Grand Mufti, and the Chief Imam, who has now been designated to lead prayers at the mosque.
He urged citizens to embody the values of compassion, love, and empathy beyond the Ramadan period, stressing that true devotion is reflected not only in fasting and prayers but also in acts of kindness, integrity, and generosity within society.
The governor called on people of all faiths—Muslims, Christians, and others—to embrace peaceful coexistence, noting that Ondo State’s diversity remains a vital strength for its development. He also pointed to the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season as a powerful symbol of unity among the state’s religious communities.
Addressing concerns raised by Muslim leaders, including issues surrounding civil service promotions, Aiyedatiwa explained that advancement in the service is guided by seniority to maintain fairness and protect career progression. He assured that officers on Level 16 would ultimately attain the position of permanent secretary in due course.
On security matters, the governor acknowledged isolated kidnapping incidents but disclosed that more than 99 suspects had been arrested and would be prosecuted. He condemned cases of staged kidnappings and clarified that security agencies in the state are focused on tackling kidnappers, dismissing claims of bandit presence in Ondo.
He further urged residents, particularly those in rural areas, to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and refusing to shelter criminal elements, noting that safety is a collective responsibility.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to governance, Aiyedatiwa assured that ongoing efforts in healthcare, education, infrastructure, economic growth, and empowerment programmes would continue without disruption.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the Ondo Muslim Welfare Board, Alhaji Zikrullah Adam Chandy, commended the governor for hosting the Iftar, describing it as a unique platform for engagement between the Muslim community and the state leadership.
Delivering a lecture, Alhaji Sheikh Batuta Al-Adaby stressed that while acts of worship are important, good character and conduct remain paramount, warning against any form of religious practice that breeds division.
In his goodwill message, the Chief Imam of Akure, Sheikh Abdulhaheem Yayi-Akorode, appreciated the governor’s initiatives but called for greater inclusion of Muslims in governance, particularly in political appointments and upcoming House of Assembly elections, noting that qualified individuals within the community should not be overlooked.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, on March 18, 2026.
