By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
A leading governorship aspirant in Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has called on political leaders and Nigerians to embrace forgiveness, compassion, and mercy as guiding principles for leadership and peaceful coexistence.
Ajadi made this call on Monday, shortly after speaking with journalists at the 8th Annual Ramadan Lecture of the Arowosaye Foundation, held at the Oba Adeyemi III Arcade, Ode Aremo, Oyo, Oyo State. The lecture was organised in memory of Alhaji Ganiyu Akano Arowosaye and Alhaja Sidikatu Ayooka Arowosaye, with Hon. Arowosaye Saheed Adeyemi (popularly known as AROSAD) serving as the chief host.
Speaking on the significance of the Ramadan season, Ajadi said the holy month provides an opportunity for leaders and citizens alike to renew their commitment to good character, particularly forgiveness and service to humanity.
“Ramadan teaches us discipline, sacrifice, and most importantly forgiveness. As leaders and aspiring leaders, we must learn to forgive, accommodate different opinions, and work for the collective good of our people,” Ajadi said.
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He added that politics should not be driven by bitterness or vendettas but by the desire to improve the lives of the people.
“Leadership is about compassion and responsibility. If allowed to serve, my focus will remain on policies that promote unity, development, and social justice for the people of Oyo State,” he added.
Earlier in his lecture titled “Ramadan: A Season of Maghfirah (Forgiveness) for the Living and the Deceased,” the guest lecturer, Sheikh Uthman Sannu Sheu, Chief Mufasir of the Ilorin Emirate, described Ramadan as a unique month filled with Allah’s mercy from beginning to end.
According to the Islamic scholar, while other months may come with different trials and uncertainties, Ramadan remains a period specially endowed with divine blessings, forgiveness, and opportunities for spiritual renewal.
“All other months have one danger or another, but Ramadan from the beginning to the middle and the end is filled with mercy and blessings. It is a month Allah has set aside for forgiveness and spiritual upliftment,” Sannu Sheu said.
He urged Muslims to use the period to seek forgiveness from Allah and also reconcile with fellow human beings.
“If you want Allah to forgive you, you must also learn to forgive others. Forgiveness is not weakness; it is strength of character and a sign of true faith,” he stated.
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The cleric also used the occasion to advise politicians to demonstrate humility and fear of God in their dealings with the people, noting that leadership is a trust from God.
In a direct remark to Ajadi, he said:
“Our incoming governor, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, should imbibe the character of forgiveness and mercy in politics and in all dealings with people. Allah loves those who forgive.”
In his remarks, the chief host, Hon. Arowosaye Saheed Adeyemi (AROSAD), expressed appreciation to guests, scholars, political leaders, and community members for honouring the invitation despite their busy schedules.
He said the annual lecture was conceived not only to honour the memory of his late parents but also to promote Islamic teachings of peace, charity, and community development.
“This annual Ramadan lecture is our own little way of preserving the legacy of kindness, generosity, and service to humanity which our late parents stood for. We are grateful to Allah for the opportunity to sustain this initiative for eight years,” Arowosaye said.
He also thanked the guest lecturer for delivering a lecture that he described as spiritually enriching and impactful.
“We appreciate Sheikh Uthman Sannu Sheu for the powerful message on forgiveness and mercy. We believe the lessons shared today will positively influence our community and encourage better relationships among our people,” he added.
The well-attended event featured prayers for the deceased, special supplications for peace in Oyo State and Nigeria, and goodwill messages from dignitaries present at the gathering.
The Arowosaye Foundation Ramadan Lecture has, over the years, become a significant spiritual gathering in Oyo, bringing together Islamic scholars, political leaders, and members of the public to reflect on faith, leadership, and societal values.
