Hijrah: Like King Najashi, like Governor Makinde

By Sulaimon Olanrewaju

Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) testimony about Najashi, the Christian King of Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia and Eritrea), was the crowning glory of his eventful reign.

The Holy Prophet (PBUH), who was experiencing severe persecution from the ruling Quraysh tribe in Mecca, had told his companions to migrate to Abyssinia to preserve their faith, saying, "If you were to go to Abyssinia, it would be better for you, for in it is a king under whom no one is wronged, and it is a land of truth..."   

So, in 613 CE, a group of Muslims, among who were Uthman ibn Affan and Ja’far ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with them), embarked on the first Hijrah when they set out on a long journey across deserts and seas to Abyssinia. 

King Najashi lived up to his reputation; he accommodated the Muslims who sought refuge in his country. However, though the King and his people made the Muslims feel at home, the persecuting Meccans gave the faithful no respite as they chased them to Abyssinia, maligned them, and enticed Najashi with money, hoping to persuade the King to hand over the Muslims to them. But rather than dance to the tune of the Meccans, Najashi invited the Muslims to his palace and gave them an opportunity to state their own side of the story. After listening to them, the King said, “I will never hand over the Muslims to you. They are safe here in my land.”

So, the Muslims remained in Abyssinia for a considerable time.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was greatly impressed by King Najashi’s good leadership, and their relationship remained cordial despite being of different faiths and never meeting physically. 

The Prophet (PBUH) demonstrated his love and respect for King Najashi when an Abyssinian delegation paid a visit to him in Medina as he stood up to serve them food with his own hands. Similarly, when Najashi passed away in Abyssinia in 630 CE, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) gathered his companions in Medina and performed Salat al-Gha'ib (the funeral prayer in absentia). This remains the only time in recorded history that the Prophet (PBUH) performed an absentia funeral prayer for a deceased person.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) went the extra mile for the King, not merely because of the latter’s support for the propagation of Islam and his kindness to Muslims, but primarily because of his migration (Hijrah) from exploitative and toxic leadership, which was the norm at the time, to ethical leadership and good governance, as well as his embrace of justice and fairness.

Taking a cue from the Prophet’s precept, Professor Kamil Oloso, a former Head of the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Ibadan, in an interview with this writer in 2025, said: “I will be answerable to God if I fail to speak about the goodness of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State to Muslims in the state.”

Stressing his point, Oloso, who is the Wakeel Muslimeen of Oyo State, said all the injustices experienced by Oyo State Muslims in the past had been corrected by Governor Makinde, adding that no past administration in the state had been as benevolent or supportive of Muslims and Islam as Makinde’s administration has been.

His words: “We were worried that being a Christian, he might want to marginalise the Muslim Community in the state. But when we met with him, he assured us that he would be fair to all. And he has been fair to the Muslim Community in the state.”

Buttressing his position, the distinguished Islamic scholar mentioned the appointments of Muslims to key government positions, the approval of Hijrah Holiday as well as the employment of many Muslims during the recruitment exercise carried out by the state government, among others.” 

Professor Oloso added that the religious harmony being experienced in the state could be attributed to the fairness of Governor Makinde to all and sundry.

Also attesting to Governor Makinde’s sterling leadership and uncommon support for Islam, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Sa'ad Abubakar, who is the Amirul Mumini and the President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, said the governor keeps his promises.

The Sultan, who was in Ibadan in 2023 to inaugurate the Adogba Mosque, which Governor Makinde rebuilt at his own expense following the demolition of the Organization of Tadhamunul Muslimeen Mosque by the state government, to make way for the Iwo Road bus terminal, said: "If you look at how the mosque was in the past and how it is now, there is nothing you can say but thank God for the life of Seyi Makinde for his thoughts and the way he implemented his thoughts.

"Many people promise to do something, but when it comes to implementation, they have problems fulfilling their promises."

Sultan Abubakar said further, “I went round the whole area, I can assure you that there is no building as beautiful as this mosque. No matter where you come from, you will see the mosque, that is what we should do for our community. We should continue to build beautiful houses of God.

"The mosque is not only a place of worship, it is also a school. Now we have an Islamic school and a beautiful mosque, it is something that will encourage us to seek knowledge in this world and the hereafter. 

"This is a good history, and we hope to have it in many places, so we are grateful to the Governor." 

In the same vein, the Aare Musulumi of Yourbaland, Edo and Delta States, His Eminence Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola, has consistently praised Governor Makinde for his love and support for Islam and its practitioners. 

According to the revered Muslim leader, “Governor Makinde has been governing the state with the fear of God as well as being fair to the Muslim Ummah and adherents of other religions in the state." 

He added that “Makinde is a leader whose style of governance reflects vision, inclusiveness, and commitment to the welfare of the people of Oyo State."

The Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Chief Imam of Oyo State, Sheikh Abdul Ganiy Abubakri Agbotomokekere, has been unswerving in his praise for Governor Makinde for providing an enabling environment for Muslims to practise their belief and for also supporting them relentlessly. Going into specifics, the leading cleric said the Governor has built mosques and supported the renovation of Agodi Eid Praying Ground. He also cited Governor Makinde’s support to Muslims during Ramadan and Eid-el Kabir, sponsoring people on holy pilgrimage to Mecca and provision of buses to mosques and Muslim organisations. 

Similarly, the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO), Oyo State chapter, has repeatedly praised Makinde for being a leader who is not blinded by religious bigotry, but someone who is driven by a genuine desire for fairness and religious harmony.

NACOMYO, in a statement signed by the state coordinator, Alhaji Dawood Afolabi, hailed Governor Makinde for providing a leadership which is anchored in fairness and respect for religious diversity.

Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as saying that believers are Allah’s witnesses on earth. The import of this is that the faithful’s predisposition is a reflection of Allah’s disposition. 

So, Makinde may not profess Islam, but his actions and utterances show that he does not hate the religion. 

He may not observe salat five times a day, but he enables the observance of salat by building mosques and providing a conducive environment for the adherents of Islam to freely practise their religion.

 He may not have gone on pilgrimage to Mecca, but he has sponsored hundreds on the holy pilgrimage.

 He may not fast during Ramadan, but he gifts and fetes thousands of fasting Muslims. So, though not a Muslim by practice, Governor Makinde, like King Najashi, is a leader “under whom no one is wronged”, a governor who has turned Oyo State into “a land of truth..."   

In addition, Governor Makinde is a waliyy, a friend of Allah (SWT), who occupies a special space in His heart. Because as stated by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), "Whoever builds a mosque for Allah, Allah will build for him a house like it in Jannah". And who would have a house in Jannah if not a friend of Allah and His Prophet (PBUH)?

Dr Olanrewaju is the Special Adviser (Media) to Oyo State Governor.

Culture, Heritage, and Bold Ambition: Aperin Obisesan Dynasty Charts Path to Global Prominence at Annual Festival

​It was a vibrant display of rich Yoruba heritage and tradition as members of the Aperin Obisesan family, along with friends and well-wishers, converged for the annual Aperin Obisesan Day. The event, which has become a staple of cultural preservation in the region, once again served as a rallying point for kinsmen returning from home and abroad to honor their roots.

​The atmosphere at the venue was electric, with the “crème de la crème” of the community gracing the occasion in colorful traditional attire. The celebration, designed to deepen the bond of unity and foster the preservation of the Obisesan lineage's history, provided a platform for both the younger generation and elders to connect with their ancestral identity.

​Addressing the crowd during his opening speech, the Mogaji of the family, Mogaji Kayode Tokunbo Obisesan, reflected on a year of unprecedented growth and unity, describing the current era as the most harmonious of his tenure. In an emotional tribute, he honored the memory of his late father, Professor Abimbola Obisesan, and acknowledged the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Baba Oloye Are Alasa Balogun Lowo Obisesan, the Alakanran of Alakanran, the Alaro of Alaro, and various community leaders.

​The event drew an impressive turnout of distinguished figures, underscoring the significance of the dynasty in the sociopolitical fabric of Ibadan. Among those in attendance were the PDP candidate for the Ibadan Southwest/Ibadan Northwest federal constituency, Honourable Opeyemi Fatola; Barrister Lowo Obisesan; Mogaji Tunji Hazmat Jigan; Mogaji Ile Adewuyi Kasumu Ogbagba; and Oba Kola Adegbola, all of whom joined the family in celebrating the milestones of the dynasty.

​Speaking with newsmen at the event, Hon. Opeyemi Fatola praised the Aperin family as a lineage of warriors whose heritage and history deserve to be celebrated. He lauded the current leadership, noting that the annual carnival, which started five years ago, has been a beacon of cultural pride that helps connect the younger generation with their roots. Fatola emphasized the importance of such gatherings in today's era of modern technology, remarking that the event acts as a necessary bridge that redirects the attention of the youth back toward their cultural heritage.

​Beyond the cultural fanfare, Mogaji Obisesan unveiled a bold, five-year strategic development plan designed to transform Aperin into a global cultural brand while driving local economic prosperity. The vision includes a major 200-acre estate project projected to generate over N2.5 billion, the establishment of a university with faculties in Medicine, Finance, and Law, and the development of a modern healthcare centre. Addressing immediate infrastructure needs, the Mogaji announced that 70 solar streetlights and 10 solar security cameras are set to be installed by September 2026, alongside the ongoing pursuit of the historic "Ile Igbejo" palace project.  

​Adding a rhythmic flair to the festivities, the renowned musician Alhaji Ayinde Marage took charge of the bandstand. His performance held the audience spellbound, as guests were treated to an array of soul-stirring melodies that resonated with the celebratory spirit of the day, turning the occasion into an unforgettable cultural experience.

OYRTMA, Motor Dealers Agree on Strict Enforcement of Executive Order 02 of 2026

...warns against unregistered vehicles in Oyo State

 

The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) and motor dealers’ associations across the state have agreed on the strict enforcement of Executive Order 002 of 2026, which prohibits unregistered vehicles from plying public roads in the state.

The Executive Chairman of OYRTMA, Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd), stated this during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the agency’s headquarters in Ibadan on Thursday, 11 June, 2026.

Adesagba said the enforcement had become necessary due to security concerns arising from the movement of unregistered vehicles on public roads. He emphasised that dealer number plates must be properly backed by valid documents, adding that stickers would no longer be accepted as substitutes for dealers' registration numbers.

The chairman also warned motor dealers against using walkways and roadsides as vehicle display points, noting that such practices block pedestrian pathways and often force people to walk on the carriageway, increasing the risk of being struck by moving vehicles and suffering serious injuries or death. He advised dealers operating along highways and major roads to relocate to proper motor yards where vehicles can be parked without obstructing other road users.

Major Adesagba further explained that every motor dealer must possess a valid identification card. He added that convoy movement of dealer vehicles may be permitted provided all necessary documents are available for inspection by enforcement officers.

On sanctions for offenders, Adesagba stated that any vehicle arrested for violating the Executive Order would be arraigned at the Traffic Offences Tribunal.

The meeting was attended by leaders and members of the Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria (AMDON), the Motor Dealers Association of Nigeria (MODAN), as well as zonal and unit chairmen.

Responding to a request by Mr. Olatunde Adefola, AMDON Branch Chairman for Bodija, for the inclusion of motor dealers as volunteer marshals, Adesagba directed the association’s leadership to nominate qualified members for screening and possible inauguration to support OYRTMA operations.

Earlier, AMDON Chairman, Asiwaju Kolawole Olurinde, commended OYRTMA for organising the sensitisation programme and urged enforcement officers to recognise genuine members who possess valid identification cards and dealer numbers while ensuring that illegal operators are apprehended.

Also speaking, MODAN Zonal Chairman for New Garage, Mr. Adebayo Ajani, described the meeting as timely and important for enhancing security. He stressed that dealers without valid renewal documents, identification cards, driver’s licences, or supporting registration papers should be sanctioned according to the law. He also advised members against driving against Ttaffic and driving dealer vehicles at night or contravening any traffic regulations.

Delivering the vote of thanks, OYRTMA General Manager, Commander Ayoade Adeoye, expressed appreciation to all participants for attending the meeting. He particularly thanked members and leaders who travelled from different zones across the state.

The meeting ended with a unanimous resolution that no vehicle should operate on public roads without proper registration and that all motor dealers must possess valid identification cards and supporting documents.

Gov. Makinde To Inaugurate Climate Council

...as Oyo Moves to Strengthen Climate Governance

 

The Oyo State Governor,Engr. 'Seyi Makinde is set to inaugurate the Oyo State Climate Council  next week ,as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen climate governance, deepen environmental sustainability initiatives, and advance the state's commitment to tackling climate change through the implementation and review of its Climate Action Plan.

The  Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Engr. Dr. Ademola Temitayo Aderinto,stated on Thursday in his office,that the inauguration of the Council represents a significant milestone in the implementation of the state's environmental sustainability agenda.

 He said that the Council will serve as the apex policy and advisory body on climate change, providing strategic direction for climate mitigation and adaptation initiatives while ensuring alignment with Nigeria's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and other international climate commitments.

He explained that the  Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources will also commence the technical review of the Oyo State Climate Action Plan (CAP) through a stakeholders' retreat involving key Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), development partners, academia, and climate experts.

According to him,the exercise is aimed at producing a comprehensive and practical roadmap for climate action across the state.

The review will focus on critical areas including vulnerability assessments of forests, water resources, agriculture, and urban settlements across the 33 Local Government Areas.

He added that it will address flooding, erosion, and heat stress, development of a robust greenhouse gas inventory and low carbon development pathways, as well as strategies for mobilizing climate finance through carbon credits, public private partnerships, and donor interventions.

He hinted that the inauguration of the Council and the review of the Climate Action Plan will provide Oyo State with a stronger institutional framework and a science driven approach to climate governance. 

He added that the technical sessions will culminate in a revised Climate Action Plan expected before the end of August 2026, with implementation of priority projects to commence immediately after validation.

He therefore reiterated the  unwavering commitment of the State Government to protecting the state's natural assets, enhancing environmental sustainability, building resilient communities, and positioning it as a leading sub-national government in climate action and green development in Nigeria.

Legal ICON Barrister Oludare Adewale congratulates Nigerians on June 12,Urges National unity June 12 stands for

An Ibadan born Legal Luminary  Barrister Oludare Adewale  has congratulated Nigerians for witnessing this year's Democracy Day  which is June 12. urging Nigerians  to always  honour the unity of Nigeria as a Nation which believes in unity in diversity. 

Barrister Adewale stated this  while chatting with newsmen in Ibadan , the Oyo State Capital.

Barrister Adewale said on June 12 ,1993, Nigerians voted for Basorun Moshood Olawale Abiola and Mallam Babanganna  kingibe and the election was adjudged  freest and fairest election in the history of Nigeria irrespective of religion and ethnicity.

Barrister Adewale said on June 12 ,1993, Nigerians voted for Basorun Moshood Olawale Abiola and Mallam Babanganna  kingibe and the election was judged  freest and fairest election in the history of Nigeria irrespective of religion and ethnicity.

The Legal lcon said unity has allowed to play dominance in the election which was unfortunately annulled  by the Military President then  , General Ibrahim Babangida.

Barrister Oludare Adewale cautioned Nigerians against allowing the June scenerio to play out in the 2027 general elections appealing to them to allow peace , unity and tranquility in the overall interest of the country.

He called on voters to vote the candidate of their choice  and  called on the Independent National  Electoral  Commission to play the game according to the rules by being transparent  in all their dealings for peace to reign  supreme.

Barrister Elder Oludare Adewale of CAC Agbala Itura International Headquarters Olode new Ife Road Ibadan charged the security Agencies to be alive to their duties before , during and after the general elections.

While expressing dismay over the ravaging insecurity in the country , Barrister Adewale  called on every Nigerian to be security conscious and always alert the law enforcement  officers and other security personnel ant time they notice or see whatever could public security threat  in their respective communities.

While commending the  government  at all levels  for efforts so far made to stem the tide of insecurity , he called on Nigerians to assist the government in fishing out criminals and heinous people particularly the kidnappers.

On the abduction of school children and teachers in Oriire Local Government of Oyo State , Barrister Oludare Adewale called on security Agencies to redouble their efforts for immediate release of the victims still in captivity of the kidnappers.

He however prayed to God to heal Nigeria of the ravaging socio economic and political crisis for Nigeria to remain the best place to live in as the giant of Africa.

Barrister Oludare Adewale seized  the opportunity  to congratulate his wife Evangelist Mrs Adewale on her 60th birthday and her retirement from the active civil and public Service  and prayed to God to grant her more years of successful accomplishments in sound health.

STOP DEMONISING AMOTEKUN, OYELADE WARNS OPPOSITION

The Oyo State Commissioner for Information , Prince Dotun Oyelade, has appealed to opposition politicians to stop playing politics with the recent kidnapping incident in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

According to the Commissioner, Governor Seyi Makinde, in his usual display of transparency and accountability, informed the people of Oyo State that about 200 personnel of the Oyo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps) have lost their lives since the establishment of the corp six years ago.

Prince Oyelade said it was unfortunate that some opposition elements have  twisted the governor's statement to create the false impression that the casualties were connected to the recent Oriire kidnapping incident.

“For the opposition to turn the statistics on its head is nothing but cheap politics. Amotekun has not lost a single operative in the Oriire kidnapping incident. The only casualty recorded was a personnel who sustained injuries and is currently recuperating,” he stated.

The Commissioner explained that the figure of 200 deaths recorded since 2020 resulted from various causes, including illnesses, natural causes, and fatalities sustained during security operations. He added that in every case, due procedures were followed, including the notification of the families of the deceased personnel.

Prince Oyelade  noted that the Oyo State Amotekun Corp remains the most funded and best-equipped security outfit in the South-West region.

 According to him, the corp currently operates 181 vehicles, 450 motorcycles, and has a workforce of over 2,500 personnel, making it the largest Amotekun formation in the region as well as one of the best remunerated.

He also said that as far back as 2021, Governor Seyi Makinde had been making a strong case for state police and the deployment of weapons capable of matching those used by bandits and kidnappers, but his repeated appeals have largely fallen on deaf ears.

The Commissioner warned the Opposition to see the current insecurity crises from an apolitical perspective and not fuel circumstances that will further jeopardise the lives of our children and teachers

He urged residents to continue supporting the efforts of the state government and security agencies in maintaining peace and security across Oyo State.

OYSCOHEST Provost Felicitates Staff, Students on Democracy Day

The Provost of Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology (OYSCOHEST), Eleyele, Ibadan, Pharm. (Mrs) Oluyemisi Oyewo, has extended warm felicitations to members of staff and students of the institution on the occasion of Nigeria's Democracy Day celebration.

In a goodwill message released on Friday, by the PRO of the College, Mr Sola Samuel Ojewole, the Provost described Democracy Day as a significant national event that provides an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the principles of freedom, justice, accountability, and national unity that underpin democratic governance.

Pharm. Oyewo noted that the celebration serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by patriotic Nigerians in the nation's democratic journey and the collective responsibility of citizens towards sustaining democratic ideals.

She emphasized the critical role of education in national development, stressing that institutions of higher learning have a responsibility to nurture responsible citizens and future leaders who will contribute positively to society.

According to her, OYSCOHEST remains committed to its mandate of training competent and ethically grounded healthcare professionals capable of addressing contemporary health challenges and contributing to the advancement of the nation's healthcare system.

The Provost urged staff and students to continue to uphold the values of integrity, discipline, excellence, professionalism, and patriotism in their academic and professional pursuits.

She further called on members of the College community to remain united and focused on the institution's vision of academic excellence, innovation, and service to humanity.

Pharm. Oyewo expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria, urging citizens to continue supporting efforts aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and promoting sustainable national development.

The Provost also expressed deep concern over the recent abduction of school children and their teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. She called on the College community and all well-meaning Nigerians to remember the victims and their families in prayers.  Pharm. Oyewo prayed that God would protect the abducted children and teachers, strengthen their families during this difficult period, and grant wisdom, courage, and success to all those involved in the rescue efforts. She expressed hope that the victims would soon be reunited safely with their loved ones.

She concluded by wishing all staff and students a peaceful, memorable, and rewarding Democracy Day celebration while praying for continued progress, peace, and prosperity for Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.