Makinde Warns Against Religion-Based Politics as Oyo Pilgrims Depart for 2026 Hajj

…Urges prayers, unity as 1,036 Oyo pilgrims prepare to travel

Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has cautioned citizens against making political decisions based on religious sentiments, stressing the need for unity in a religiously diverse society as the state prepares for another election cycle.

Makinde gave the warning during a farewell ceremony for Muslim pilgrims from the state at the Olodo Hajj Camp in Ibadan, ahead of their departure for the 2026 Hajj exercise in Mecca.

The governor also urged the intending pilgrims to pray for Oyo State and Nigeria while in the Holy Land, noting that the country is entering a critical political period that will determine leadership for the next four years.

“This is a period leading to the next election. New leaders will emerge, and whatever decisions we take, we will live with them for the next four years,” he said.

He expressed confidence in the conduct of Oyo pilgrims, describing them as disciplined and good representatives of the state, while encouraging them to maintain the standard during the pilgrimage.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Sheikh Ashim Atere, urged the pilgrims to act as worthy ambassadors of the state while in Saudi Arabia.

“Oyo State is a pacesetter and a role model for other states. I implore our pilgrims to uphold this reputation,” Atere said.

He disclosed that all arrangements for the pilgrimage, including visa processing and health requirements, had been completed.

Atere added that 1,036 intending pilgrims from Oyo State will participate in the 2026 Hajj, with airlifting scheduled to begin on May 3 in batches from Ibadan.

The Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca is one of the five pillars of Islam and attracts millions of Muslims worldwide each year.