A socio-political and interfaith advocacy group, Oyo State Peace and Religious Harmony Coalition, has cautioned political actors in Oyo State against actions capable of disrupting the long-standing religious understanding and peaceful coexistence among the people of the state ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The group, in a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan on Thursday, said the peace, unity, and stability currently enjoyed in the state were products of years of sacrifice, understanding, mutual respect, and sincere agreements among religious stakeholders and elders across Oyo State.
According to the coalition, one of the foundations sustaining harmony in the state is the principle of fairness and rotational balance between Christian and Muslim faithful in the leadership structure of the state.
The statement noted that such understandings, built on trust, equity, and peaceful coexistence, must not be sacrificed for selfish political ambition.
“The peace, unity, and stability we enjoy today in Oyo State did not happen by accident. It was built through sacrifice, understanding, mutual respect, and sincere agreements among our respected religious stakeholders and elders across the state,” the group stated.
It added that agreements reached in sincerity by elders and religious leaders should be treated as a covenant for future generations, warning that attempts to undermine such arrangements could create unnecessary division, distrust, and emotional tension among residents who have coexisted peacefully for decades.
The coalition stressed that Oyo State has consistently been recognised for wisdom, tolerance, and maturity in handling sensitive issues, urging politicians not to allow desperation for power destroy the cordial relationship existing among different religious communities in the state.
“Leadership should not only be about personal interest; it must reflect justice, fairness, inclusion, and respect for every group that makes up our society,” the statement added.
The group further urged political stakeholders to prioritise peace and unity as preparations for the 2027 governorship election gather momentum, reminding aspirants and their supporters that while political power is temporary, the consequences of injustice and exclusion could linger for generations.
It appealed to leaders across political and religious divides to honour agreements made in good faith in order to preserve the unity and stability of the state.
The coalition also prayed for continued peace in Oyo State, asking for wisdom for leaders and sustained love and unity among residents.