It is a proven fact that most families in Ibadanland comprise of individuals with different religious inclination, yet they still live together as one family.
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, at the weekend conducted the first Ramadan lecture by an Olubadan. This was done in the spirit of religious tolerance and the holy month of Ramadan.
It was hosted at his Palace in Oke Aremo, which is located in Ibadan. People came from all walks of life to attend the Ramadan lecture, which was quite historic and noteworthy considering that the monarch is a Christian and the first to hold such an event.
They participated in the unique prayers and blessings that are associated with the holy month of Ramadan.
The Olubadan expressed their gratitude to all who attended the event, which was the first of its type and was hosted by a paramount monarch of Ibadanland. Among those who attended were members of the Olubadan in Council, Royal Fathers, senior dignitaries, Islamic Clerics, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland Sheikh Abdul Ganiyy Abubakr Agbotomokekere, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta State, Alhaji Dawud Akinola Mokanjuola, Mr. Ajeniyi Ajewole, the President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Mogajis, Baales, Chief Bayo Oyero, Alhaji Diti Ladapo, Islamic religious leaders, and representatives of various associations and Islamic sects were among the distinguished guests.
Oba Owolabi said, “I am overwhelmed by the attendance at this epoch making event which is not only a spiritually edifying one but epitomises religious tolerance in Ibadanland.
“In spite of being a Christian, I see myself as the father of all and very much impressed with the gathering here irrespective of tribe, religious beliefs, language and location.
“As you must be aware, it is a proven fact that most families in Ibadanland comprise of individuals with different religious inclination, yet they still live together as one family.
“This is a testimony that peaceful co-existence reigns supreme in Ibadanland; the different religious leanings notwithstanding.”
The lecture’s theme, “Destiny,” was defined by Guest Lecturer Khalifa Ajisafe Akilapa as God’s decision.
Imam Akilapa counseled all those who held positions of power, including those who had traditional titles, to cultivate a spirit of forgiveness, to always offer honor to the Almighty God, and to refrain from engaging in deeds that were intentionally treacherous. He urged those who were dominated to be modest, loyal to the power that had been established, and to carry out any work that had been allocated to them or orders that had been bestowed upon them.
Speaking at the event, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja Said, “The gathering of the Islamic faithful at the Olubadan’s palace today for the Ramadan lecture further confirms that Oyo State is a secular State where every citizen is allowed to practice his or her religion without persecution, intimidation or harassment.”