Oyo Chief Imam, CAN leaders emphasise unity amid religious diversity

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

In a symbolic move aimed at deepening interfaith understanding and preserving communal peace, the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam (Barrister) Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has called for stronger collaboration between Muslim and Christian leaders in promoting religious harmony and social stability in Oyo.

The Islamic leader made the appeal during a goodwill visit to the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo Zone, in what stakeholders described as a significant step toward strengthening Muslim-Christian relations in the ancient town.

The meeting, held in Oyo in an atmosphere of cordiality and mutual respect, brought together senior Christian leaders across the zone under the leadership of CAN Zonal Chairman, Pastor Amos Kehinde Eguntola.

Discussions focused on sustaining peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and stronger cooperation between both faith communities in addressing social challenges and supporting community development.

Speaking during the visit, Akeugberu stressed that both Islam and Christianity are founded on values of peace, love and mutual respect, urging religious leaders to remain deliberate in building bridges across faith lines.

According to him, peaceful coexistence among religious groups remains essential for youth moral development, social order and long-term communal growth.

“Religious leaders must continue to work together to preserve the peaceful atmosphere currently enjoyed in Oyo Land. Unity between Muslims and Christians is critical to societal progress and communal stability,” he said.

The Grand Chief Imam also thanked the CAN leadership for the warm reception and reaffirmed his commitment to promoting dialogue, understanding and cooperation among adherents of both faiths.

Responding, Eguntola described the visit as both symbolic and timely, noting that it reinforces the long-standing culture of peaceful relations between Muslims and Christians in Oyo.

He assured the Muslim leadership of CAN’s readiness to continue partnering with all relevant stakeholders in advancing peace, tolerance and development across the zone.

“This visit sends a powerful message that despite religious differences, our common interest remains the peace and progress of society,” Eguntola said.

Other Christian leaders present at the meeting included Oyo West CAN Chairman, Pastor Gbenga Oluokun; Afijio CAN Chairman, Rev. Dr. Peter Ajao; Oyo East CAN Chairman, Snr. Sup. Ap. Wale Oyedemi; Atiba CAN Chairman, Gen. Evang. Ebasekore, among others.

Observers say the visit reflects growing recognition among faith leaders of the need to proactively strengthen interfaith dialogue amid rising concerns over religious intolerance in parts of the country.