The immediate past chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Oyo State chapter, Pastor Benjamin Akanmu, has warned religious leaders in the state to distance themselves from politicians to avoid being used to cause religion crisis in the state.
Akanmu in a press statement made available to journalists in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, described the people of the state as “one big family”, stating that they must do everything possible not to ignite religious crisis that would consume the state.
He said: “The recent allegations and attacks on the state government by some religious leaders and reactions or responses from some concerned individuals and government are unnecessary and counterproductive.
“The people of Oyo State are one big family; it’s been so for a very long time. That’s why we enjoyed interreligious marriages. Our families move from one religion to another without suffering attack from families or relatives. Why should our people now harbour agents of darkness to cause problem in the state.
“My years as CAN chairman in the state enjoyed great support from Muslim leaders, especially the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, including Edo and Delta. The peace we enjoyed in Oyo State during the last administration of late Abiola Ajimobi was due to solid relationship that existed between the leadership of the two notable religions in the state.
“Perhaps those alleging Governor Makinde of marginalising or sidelining Muslims in the state are unaware of his relationship with the true Muslims in the state. Of course, it is obvious they are ignorant of the role played by the Muslim leaders, especially the Aare Musulumi in the emergence of Engr. Seyi Makinde as the state governor.”
