Makinde Urges Unity, Peaceful Politics Ahead of Election Season

…Says security agencies are working round the clock to rescue abducted school children.

Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has called on residents of Oyo State and Nigerians at large to embrace unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence as the country gradually moves into another political season.

The governor made the appeal while speaking with journalists after receiving members of the Muslim Ummah at his residence following the Eid-el-Kabir prayers.

Makinde commended the people of Oyo State for their culture of tolerance and hospitality, noting that the state has continued to accommodate people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds over the years.

According to him, many residents grew up in communities where people from different parts of the country, including the northern and eastern regions, lived together peacefully.

The governor warned against division along ethnic or religious lines, urging residents to focus on values and interests that unite them rather than issues that create segregation.

He stated that ordinary Nigerians are more concerned about their livelihoods and the future of their children than political or ethnic differences.

Makinde also encouraged residents to remain their “brother’s keeper” and maintain peaceful relationships despite political disagreements.

He stressed that political contests and party differences should not be allowed to threaten the unity and stability of the state and the country.

“We politicians may insult ourselves because we belong to different political parties, but governments will come and go while the state remains,” the governor said.

Makinde noted that his administration would mark seven years in office in a few days, adding that leadership is temporary and every government must eventually leave the stage for others.

He therefore urged politicians and citizens alike to conduct political activities with decorum and place the collective interest of the state and the nation above personal or partisan interests.

The governor also congratulated Muslims in Oyo State and across Nigeria on the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, praying for many more celebrations in peace and prosperity.

Speaking on security challenges in the state, Makinde assured residents that the government and security agencies were working tirelessly to secure the release of school children recently kidnapped in Oyo State.

He further expressed sympathy with affected families and prayed for divine intervention for those currently facing difficult situations.

“God Almighty will meet them at their point of need,” he added.