By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
IBADAN — A leading governorship aspirant in Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has commended the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaji (Chief) Asiwaju Yekini Abass Oladapo, popularly known as Y.K Abass, for promoting compassion and unity through his annual Ramadan lecture themed “Mercy (Aanu).”
Ajadi, who spoke with journalists shortly after the 3rd Annual Ramadan Lecture held on Sunday, March 15, 2026, described the initiative as timely, noting that mercy remains a vital virtue needed in leadership and nation-building.
According to him, the character demonstrated by the chief host reflects the leadership style of Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, whom he described as a compassionate leader.
“I want to sincerely commend Alhaji Yekini Abass for sustaining this noble initiative that promotes mercy, unity and peaceful coexistence among our people. This is what leadership should represent,” Ajadi said.
“His humanitarian disposition reminds me of Governor Seyi Makinde, who many people refer to as a merciful governor because of his people-oriented policies and leadership style. When leaders show compassion, the people naturally feel the impact of governance,” he added.
Ajadi also appreciated dignitaries who honoured the invitation, particularly the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Abdulrasheed Adebayo Lawal, and the Aare Musulumi of Yoruba Land (Edo and Delta States), Alhaji Dawood Makanjuola Akinola, popularly known as De-Damark, for their continued commitment to religious harmony and community development.
The Ramadan lecture, which attracted Islamic scholars, political leaders, market leaders and community stakeholders, centred on the importance of mercy as a divine command and a social responsibility.
Delivering the lecture, the Guest Lecturer, Fadilat Sheikh Alhaji Ismaheel Hussain Gbamolada, the Chief Imam of Omookuorun Central Mosque, urged Nigerians, especially those in positions of authority, to embrace mercy in their dealings with others irrespective of religious, political or ethnic differences.
He emphasised that mercy is not only a spiritual obligation but also a tool for peaceful coexistence and societal progress.
“Mercy is a universal virtue that Allah commands us to show to one another. It should not be limited to religious circles alone but must extend to governance, business transactions and our daily interactions,” he said.
“When leaders are merciful, they earn the trust of the people and Allah rewards such acts both on earth and in the hereafter,” the cleric added.
In his message, the chief host, Alhaji (Chief) Asiwaju Yekini Abass Oladapo, said the annual lecture was conceived to remind people of the spiritual and social importance of mercy, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.
He noted that the gathering was not only a religious event but also a platform to promote unity among political leaders, religious figures and the business community.
“Ramadan is a period of reflection, sacrifice and compassion. This lecture is our own modest way of reminding ourselves that without mercy, there can be no peace in our society,” Y.K Abass stated.
“I appreciate all the dignitaries, scholars, political leaders and guests who took time to be part of this programme. Their presence shows that humanity still values compassion and peaceful coexistence,” he added.
He also expressed gratitude to Islamic scholars, government officials, market associations and community leaders for their continued support for the annual event.
The programme featured Qur’anic recitation by Alhaji Muiydeen Abubakar, while the opening prayer was delivered by Imam Hazeem Abdulsalam Emiola.
The event was anchored by Imam Abdul Rasheed Abdul Azeez, Special Assistant to the Oyo State Government on Religious Affairs, alongside Alfa Abdul Rouf Olamimo.
Although the Deputy Governor, Barrister Abdulrasheed Adebayo Lawal, and Alhaji Dawood Makanjuola Akinola were scheduled to deliver opening remarks, their speeches were not taken due to time constraints resulting from a delayed start to the programme. Nevertheless, both dignitaries were duly recognised at the event.
Other notable personalities present included the Executive Chairman of Egbeda Local Government and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Oyo State, Hon. Sanda Sikiru Oyedele; Chief Babatunde Tijani, popularly known as “Double T,” the Olori-Ebi of the Omituntun Dynasty; and retired Brigadier General Raji Alagbe Rasaki, former Military Governor of Ogun, Ondo and Lagos States during the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida.
READ ALSO:Ajadi, Sheikh Al-Fiditi Preach Good Governance, True Jihad
The well-attended lecture further reinforced the role of faith-based initiatives in fostering moral values, peaceful coexistence and responsible leadership in society.
