Religious leaders in Ekiti State have underscored the role of prayer as a critical tool for promoting good governance, social harmony, and sustainable development, declaring that spiritual support for leaders remains essential in addressing contemporary challenges.
This formed the basis of a special prayer session organised by the League of Imams and Alfas, where Islamic clerics from across the state gathered to intercede for the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his cabinet members.
According to a statement by the Media Officer of the League, Alhaji Yusuf Akewusola, the session, held at the Central Mosque in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday, marked the League’s first formal meeting after the holy month of Ramadan. It drew participation from Imams and Alfas representing all the sixteen local government areas of the state.
Speaking during the gathering, the Chief Imam of Ado-Ekiti and President of the League in the South-West, including Edo and Delta States, Jamiu Kewulere Bello, said the initiative was informed by the need to seek divine guidance for leaders and reinforce the moral foundation required for effective governance.
He noted that prayer remains a vital instrument for fostering peace, unity, and responsible leadership, stressing that leaders who are guided by divine wisdom are better positioned to meet the needs of the people.
The cleric commended Governor Oyebanji for what he described as consistent support for the Muslim community, particularly during the Ramadan period, as well as his administration’s efforts in maintaining security and religious harmony across the state.
Kewulere-Bello added that the League found it necessary to reciprocate the governor’s gestures through prayers, asking for divine wisdom, strength, and protection for him as he continues to steer the affairs of the state.
He also extended prayers to President Bola Tinubu, Muslim political appointees, and aspirants at various levels, urging them to prioritise justice, fairness, and the welfare of citizens in their leadership responsibilities.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Salman Adedipe, praised the state government for its support to the board and towards ensuring seamless preparations for this year’s Hajj exercise.
He disclosed that intending pilgrims from the state are expected to be airlifted to the holy land in Saudi Arabia early next month.
Participants at the gathering offered fervent prayers for peace, stability, and economic progress in Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole, expressing hope that sustained spiritual engagement would contribute to national development and unity.
The League announced that its next meeting will be hosted by Ise/Orun Local Government, as part of efforts to sustain engagement and spiritual support across communities in the state.
