By Adeyinka Adeniran
In the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan and religious tolerance, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin at the weekend organized the first Ramadan lecture by an Olubadan.
The event held at his Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan.
The Ramadan lecture, which was very historic and significant considering the fact that the monarch is a christian and the first to host such, drew people from all walks of life who partook in the special prayers and blessings of the holy month.
Speaking at the event, the Olubadan appreciated the attendees including members of the Olubadan in Council, Royal Fathers, top dignitaries, Islamic Clerics and the various sects at the first of its kind event by a paramount ruler of Ibadanland.
The Olubadan 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.
“Inspite 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.”
In his vote of thanks, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Senator) Rashidi Ladoja, emphasised the secular nature of Ibadanland and indeed Oyo State noting that participating in religious activities shows that Ibadan residents live with the fear of God.
“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”.
Oba Ladoja enjoined the participants at the lecture to adhere strictly to the lessons learned which included perseverance, humility, love, care for one another and abstaining from sins.
The Guest Lecturer, Khalifa Ajisafe Akilapa spoke on the theme of the lecture titled, “Destiny”, which he defines as the decision of God.
According to the Islamic Scholar, it is only destiny that made Oba Olakulehin ascend the throne of his forefathers and same for everyone that occupies one position or the other.
Imam Akilapa advised all persons in positions of authority including the traditional title holders to imbibe the spirit of forgiveness; always give glory to the Almighty God and avoid treacherous acts.
He called on the ruled to be loyal to the constituted authority, humble and carry out any work assigned them or directives given faithfully.
Eminent dignitaries that graced the occasion include members of Olubadan – In – Council, Chief Imam of Ibadanland Sheikh Abdul – Ganiyy Abubakr Agbotomokekere, Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta State, Alhaji Dawud Akinola Mokanjuola, the President General of Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) Mr Ajeniyi Ajewole, Mogajis, Baales, Chief Bayo Oyero, Alhaji Diti Ladapo, Islamic religious leaders and the representatives of different associations and Islamic sects.
