By Dupson Collins, 10th April, 2023
The Grand Chief Imam of Akure Kingdom, Sheikh Abdul-Hakeem Yayi Akorede has revealed the reason why he supported Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu SAN second term in office, saying the Governor’s kind gesture and show of love to the Muslim Community in Ondo State is second to none.
He made this disclosure while playing host to the Founder of Olumuyiwa Adu Foundation (OAF) Dr. Adu in his office at the Akure Central Mosque on Sunday.
Addressing the OAF team who were on courtesy visit, the fearless Islamic Cleric said while previous government in the state failed to give Muslim the needed recognition and support, Akeredolu prioritize the welfare of the Muslim community and assented to all the needs brought to him by the leadership of the faith.
The Grand Chief Imam specifically mentioned the approval of expanse land allocated to Muslim Community along Oda Road without collecting a dime, building and renovation of the Muslim Primary School, Akure which was abandoned by the immediate past administration, building of the first Mosque at Government House among others.
His words: “Most of the things Akeredolu has done for us were verbal request which the governor will approve without writing a letter. Once I mention it to him, it is considered done. How do you want me to hate such a man? While he was seeking a second term in office, I said it openly that I will support him for second term based on what he has done for the Muslim Community in Akure and Ondo State”.
He frowned at the people of Akure Community who misinterpreted his support for Akeredolu, saying he will continue to support any government and leaders in the state who prioritize the welfare of the Muslims.”If somebody is doing good, he should be appreciated and supported”.
While welcoming Barrister Olumuyiwa Adu and his team, he congratulated Akure Kingdom for having a prominent son like Adu who is rendering selfless service to humanity within and outside Akure environs.
He stated further that the philanthropist gesture of Barr Olumuyiwa Adu has no political or religion colouration but extending hands of love to the less privileged in the society.
“What distinguishes Adu from other politicians is his kindness, humbleness, respect for both old and young, ability to stands by his words and his goodwill will definitely take him to place of greatness”.
The Sheikh thanked him for reaching out to the Muslims mostly during the ongoing Ramadan period, praying for long life, good health and abundant blessings, adding that givers never lack.
In his response, Barr Olumuyiwa Adu thanked the Chief Imam for the warm reception saying he believes God is one, be it Muslim or Christian, they are serving the same God.
He added that his act of giving is not for any political or peculiar gains but adding meaningful values to the lives of indigents, widows and orphans in the society.
Adu disclosed that he joined politics with the motive of using the platform to reach out to the larger population of his people who have been neglected by the government and their representatives over the years.
He promised to continue to reach out to the Muslim Community within his God given resources whenever the needs arises.
Meanwhile, he gave the Muslim community in Akure, Idanre, Ifedore and Ondo bags of rice.
