Olubadan backs Sultan's bid for religious harmony in Nigeria

OYO, Nigeria—The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olaknlehin, has commended and urged the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, to maintained his role in fostering religious harmony in the country for meaningful growth and development.

He spoke when the Sultan of Sokoto paid him a courtesy visit at his place in Oke Aremo Ibadan.

This information was contained in a statement by Olakulehin's Chief Press Secretary,  Gbenga Ayoade, on Monday.

According to the statement, the Sultan was accompanied by the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Adebayo Lawal, President of Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria and Deputy President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Rasaki Oladejo, and other leaders of the organisation.

Oba Olakulehin, spoke through the Ekaarun Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief (Senator) Sharafadeen Alli.

He said, “The Olubadan appreciates your attendance at his coronation in July and your visit today. He is thankful for the roles you have been playing in preaching religious tolerance and harmony in the country.“The Olubadan implores you to continue to play your role as the co-chairman of Nigeria Inter-Religious Council,” the statement said.

Responding, the Sultan said that he had visited Ibadan more than any other city in the South-West region.

“I wish the Olubadan more years on the throne. As I said earlier, I am not new to Ibadan. We are all brothers,” he said.

The monarch also urged Alhaji Abubakar to continue to unite Nigerians by promoting religious harmony and tolerance among Nigeria’s diverse religions.

Other personalities on the visit included the Otun Balogun of Ibadan, Oba Kolawole Adegbola; Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Salawudeen Hamidu Ajibade; and the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadan, High Chief Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin.