AARE MUSULUMI AND THE POLITICS OF ENDORSEMENT: A CALL FOR CAUTION AND RESPONSIBILITY

The attention of the Oyo State PDP Support Group has been drawn to a report circulating in the media alleging that the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola Akinola, has endorsed Barrister Sharafadeen Alli, the APC gubernatorial candidate, for the 2027 Oyo State governorship election.

We would like to assume, in good faith, that this report was either a slip of the tongue or a misrepresentation of his message by political fifth columnists who have developed a disturbing penchant for propagating misleading information.

Be that as it may, it is imperative to state that the revered office of Aare Musulumi does not confer political authority to endorse any candidate on behalf of the entire Muslim Ummah within his jurisdiction. His primary responsibility is to promote Islam, foster unity among Muslims, and serve as a spiritual and moral leader—not a political authority. As such, he is expected to remain above partisan politics and serve as a father to all, irrespective of their political affiliations, particularly when multiple Muslim candidates are in the race.

The people of Oyo State, especially its Muslim population, are politically conscious, discerning, and sophisticated. They can not be swayed by endorsements that appear insensitive to the economic hardship, suffering, and developmental setbacks experienced under the APC-led administration in the state.

Furthermore, the public standing of the reportedly endorsed candidate remains a subject of serious political debate, notwithstanding his status as a serving Senator. Questions have also been raised over the controversial incantations reportedly recited during his gubernatorial declaration. Such conduct raises legitimate concerns about the image, values, and representation expected of a candidate seeking the support of conscious and enlightened Muslims. Oyo State deserves a Muslim Governor in 2027, but certainly not Barrister Sharafadeen Alli.

It is particularly troubling that in a race featuring distinguished personalities such as Barrister Gbolarumi Hazeem, a conscious Muslim, seasoned statesman, and longstanding member of Ansarudeen Society, the Aare Musulumi would reportedly lend his endorsement to a candidate whose public conduct has generated considerable controversy. Such an endorsement, if accurately reported, risks offending the sensibilities of many Muslims and diminishing the neutrality and revered standing of the religious institution he occupies.

Oyo State deserves a conscious Muslim, an elder statesman, and a leader whose experience, integrity, and commitment to public service place the collective interest of the state above personal or partisan considerations.

The people of Oyo State have not forgotten the economic prosperity, relative stability, and quality of life experienced under PDP-led administrations. The memories of those years remain a significant reference point in the political consciousness of the electorate.

We therefore respectfully urge the Aare Musulumi to exercise caution in matters of partisan politics, avoid actions capable of creating divisions within the Muslim Ummah, and concentrate on his sacred responsibilities of religious leadership, unity, and spiritual guidance.

The Muslim Ummah belongs to all political tendencies. Its revered institutions must remain above partisan contestation.
Oyo State deserves experience, competence, integrity, and purposeful leadership.