The Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dahud Makanjuola Akinola, has insisted that Governor Seyi Makinde’s successor in 2027 should be a Muslim, throwing his weight behind the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli.

Akinola said the governorship ticket should go to a popular Muslim candidate, citing an alleged understanding reached between Muslim and Christian leaders in Oyo State ahead of the 2023 governorship election.

He stated this on Thursday at a special empowerment programme organised by the Asiwaju Musulumi of Oyo State, Alhaji Mutiu Oladejo Azeez Onimalu, at his residence in Egbeda, Ibadan.

According to him, the understanding was that Muslim and Christian leaders would support Makinde’s second-term ambition in 2023, with the expectation that a popular Muslim candidate acceptable to both religious groups would receive their backing in 2027.

The Islamic leader described Alli’s emergence as the APC governorship candidate as divinely ordained, claiming that the senator had secured the support of Muslims and Christians across the state.

He urged residents to rally behind Alli, expressing confidence that those involved in the reported agreement would honour their commitment.

Akinola also commended Onimalu for his contributions to the growth of Islam and his philanthropic activities, noting that his humanitarian efforts had continued to make a positive impact on the lives of the people.

In his welcome address, Onimalu disclosed that his foundation planned to empower at least 10,000 people, particularly unemployed graduates and widows, to cushion the effects of the prevailing economic hardship.

He said the initiative was designed to make beneficiaries financially independent and reduce their dependence on relatives and acquaintances for survival.

The Asiwaju Musulumi also declared support for Alli’s governorship ambition, expressing confidence in his victory at the 2027 election.

He maintained that the reported understanding between Muslim and Christian leaders in the state should be respected, urging the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other Christian organisations reportedly involved in the arrangement to honour their commitment.

Onimalu consequently called on residents to support Alli and vote for him in the February 2027 governorship election.