Oru-Ijebu, Ogun State – The Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi, has praised the Oru-Ijebu Muslim community for its exemplary display of interfaith harmony, describing the installation of the town’s new Chief Imam as a significant milestone in the community’s spiritual journey.
Talabi, who represented Governor Dapo Abiodun at the well-attended turbaning ceremony of Alhaji Imam Muhammad Jamiu Eyinlohun, said the event was not merely a ceremony but a renewal of hope and a reaffirmation of the vital role religious leaders play in promoting peace, harmony and progress.
“Today, we celebrate a reaffirmation that the Imam acts as a bridge, connecting communities and offering guidance far beyond the mosque,” Talabi stated. He expressed confidence that the new Chief Imam would serve with integrity, wisdom and compassion, and urged him to champion interfaith dialogue and contribute to the overall development of Ogun State.
The government’s commendation came with a striking illustration of the town’s celebrated interfaith spirit: during the installation, a local church made a financial donation to the mosque. The new Chief Imam, known for consistently preaching religious tolerance, has often cited leadership arrangements where people of different faiths coexist peacefully, devoid of the rancour seen in political contests.
“We believe in the power of faith to unite us, and we are confident that the Imam will be a strong advocate for peace and understanding,” Talabi added. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to religious freedom and support for all faith communities, calling on citizens to work together irrespective of religious affiliation.
“Let us build a state where tolerance, understanding and mutual respect prevail. Let us strive to create an environment where all people feel safe, valued and respected,” the SSG said.
Dignitaries at the event included the member representing Ijebu North, Ijebu East and Ogun Waterside Federal Constituency, Hon. Joseph Adegbesan; the Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperatives, Hon. Ademola Balogun; the wife of the SSG, Mrs Derin Talabi; and the Iyaloja of Oru, among others.
The high point of the occasion was the formal turbaning of Alhaji Imam Muhammad Jamiu Eyinlohun as Chief Imam, with prayers offered for a tenure marked by justice, fairness and divine guidance.
