Oyo 2027: Aare Musulumi Backs Alli, Cites Reported Interfaith Agreement

Dahud Akinola says Muslim and Christian leaders had agreed to support a popular Muslim successor to Governor Makinde following his re-election in 2023.

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dahud Makanjuola Akinola, has endorsed Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli for the 2027 Oyo State governorship election, arguing that the state should produce a Muslim successor to Governor Seyi Makinde.

Akinola said his position was based on an understanding he claimed was reached between Muslim and Christian leaders in the state ahead of the 2023 governorship election, under which a popular Muslim candidate acceptable to both religious communities would receive support in the next electoral cycle.

He made the declaration on Thursday, November 5, 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 Akinola, the understanding involved religious leaders supporting Makinde’s second-term bid in 2023, with the expectation that a Muslim candidate would receive backing to succeed him in 2027. He identified Alli, the APC’s governorship candidate, as his preferred choice, linking the senator’s candidacy to the reported arrangement.

Alli is among the candidates cleared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the February 6, 2027 governorship election in Oyo State.

Makinde, who is serving his second and final term, is constitutionally barred from seeking another term in office.

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