By SULEIMAN SHEHU

Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has advised Muslims and Christians in Nigeria to remain united and not play the religion card in the 2027 elections and cause upheaval.

Makinde gave the advice on Saturday in Ibadan while declaring open the three-day conference and the 62nd Anniversary of the League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference has as its theme: “The Responsibilities of Politicians and Electorate During and After Electoral Process”.

The governor said that though his grandfather was a Muslim, and he a Christian, the difference in faith has in no way affected the peaceful and harmonious relationship among his family members.

He called on adherents of the Muslim and Christian faith to see one another as one and vote candidates based on competence and not on religious sentiments for the progress and development of the country.

“We should have it in mind that we are one and not allow religion to divide us as a result of the forthcoming 2027 general elections,” he said.

Makinde also called on Islamic clerics to continue to pray for Nigeria in order to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free 2027 general elections.

In his remarks, President-General, League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland, Shelkh Jamiu Kewulere, said the league was established 62 years ago for love, unity and progress of Muslims in Yorubaland.

Kewulere, who is also the Grand Chief Imam of Ekiti State, said the organisation was not created on the basis of politics, but could guide politicians rightly to ensure growth, unity and development of the country.

He cautioned Islamic clerics to be guided on their utterances and avoid speeches that could cause division and acrimony before, during and after 2027 general elections.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Board of Trustees of the League, Shelkh Muhammed Habibullah, said that its leadership was displeased with the conduct of some Islamic clerics in Yorubaland who publicly abused one another.

Habibullah urged them to shun the attitude and emulate the exemplary life of Prophet Muhammed and as well adhere to the teaching of Quran in all their deeds to promote unity in Islam.

The Grand Mufti of Yorubaland, Shelkh Abdul Rasaq AbdulAzeez, said one of the purposes of the three-day conference was to see how to unite Muslims in Yorubaland and as well live peacefully with members of other religious faiths.

NAN reports that among dignitaries at the occasion were the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Shelkh AbdulGaniy Abubakre, Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola and others. (NAN)