Olalekan Shoyinka
The recent statement credited to the Ogun State chapter of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), urging Christian leaders to support the emergence of a Muslim governor in the 2027 election on the basis of “religious balance,” deserves a thoughtful response in the spirit of peace, unity and democratic maturity.
Ogun State has historically stood as one of the most tolerant and culturally progressive states in Nigeria. The people of the state have, for decades, demonstrated that politics and governance can flourish without the divisive intrusion of religious sentiment. Our collective political history shows that while governors may personally profess different faiths, governance in Ogun State has never been defined by religious discrimination or sectarian preference.
Since the creation of Ogun State in 1976, no governor—whether Christian or Muslim—has ever used religion as a yardstick for distributing democratic dividends or determining who deserves access to governance. The developmental trajectory of the state has never been segmented along religious lines. Roads have been built for everyone, schools have been constructed for all, hospitals have served citizens irrespective of faith, and government policies have always been expected to serve the entire populace without bias.
Indeed, several governors who happened to be Christians did not sideline Muslims or adherents of traditional religion in governance. Likewise, Muslim leaders who have held positions of authority have never governed the state as representatives of a religious bloc. This long-standing tradition of inclusivity is a testament to the enlightened political culture of the Ogun people.
It is therefore important to caution against introducing religious arithmetic into the political discourse ahead of the 2027 governorship election. Democracy thrives on competence, vision, integrity and capacity—not on the religious identity of candidates.
Recent political developments in the state further reinforce the point that religion has not defined the actions of aspirants seeking public office. One of the prominent aspirants to the Oke-Mosan seat, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), has demonstrated support for Islamic activities in the state, recently organising one of the most well-attended Ramadan lectures in Ogun State. At that gathering, the Wakeelul Muslimeen of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, and Consultant to the Ogun State Governor on Religious Matters, Sheikh Iskeel Lawal Sugar, even urged the people of Ogun West to rally behind him.
Similarly, one of the respected female aspirants in the race, Distinguished Senator Iyabo Obasanjo (Iyaniwura), publicly affirmed her commitment to inclusive governance during the Ogun FIBAN Ramadan Lecture. When challenged by the Guest Speaker, Sheikh Abdulfatai Raji As-Thaqofy (Baba ni Mushin), she made it clear that her administration—if elected—would not favour any religion above another. She rightly observed that God Almighty does not discriminate when granting His blessings, and therefore no leader should govern with religious bias.
These examples clearly demonstrate that political actors in Ogun State already understand the importance of religious harmony and inclusiveness in governance.
While the concerns raised by MURIC may have been framed around fairness and equity, the implication of advocating political leadership strictly on the basis of religious identity could inadvertently deepen divisions in a society that has long thrived on peaceful coexistence.
Ogun State should not be reduced to a battleground of religious calculations. The state’s political evolution has always been anchored on progressive ideals—where leadership is determined by merit, credibility, competence and the ability to unite the people.
Our revered religious leaders—both Muslim and Christian—have historically played a vital role in maintaining peace and moral guidance in society. At a time when Nigeria already faces numerous challenges that require unity of purpose, it is imperative that religious institutions continue to serve as bridges of harmony rather than platforms for political polarization.
As we approach the 2027 governorship election, the responsibility before the people of Ogun State is clear. Our focus must remain on identifying a leader who possesses the vision, administrative capacity and moral integrity required to advance the development of the state.
Religion should inspire personal morality and social cohesion, not determine political entitlement.
The people of Ogun State have always been known for their political wisdom and maturity. In 2027, they must once again demonstrate that what truly matters is not the religion a candidate professes, but the competence, character and commitment they bring to governance.
In the end, Ogun State does not need a Muslim governor or a Christian governor—it needs a capable governor.
And that choice must remain the exclusive decision of the people, guided by merit and the collective interest of the state, not by religious sentiment.
Chief Olalekan A. Shoyinka (Ayinla Egba)
Gbadegesin Ijemo, Egbaland
Convener, United Premier Movement (UPM)
Writes from Ward 5, Abeokuta South Local Government.
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