Politicians have been advised to refrain from using religion as a tool for securing elective or appointed positions. This call was made by the guest lecturer, Sheikh Abdul Razak Shittu Jeje, popularly known as “Orator,” during the first Annual Ramadan Lecture organized by Hon. Seun Oladeji, the Chief of Staff to the Chairman of Saki West Local Government. The event, which was held on Wednesday at the local government secretariat, featured a lecture titled “The Influence of Politics in Religion.”
Delivering his lecture, Sheikh Shittu lived up to his reputation as an orator, drawing from various philosophical perspectives, including realism and dualism, to support his argument. He emphasized that politicians should neither use religion to solicit votes nor allow religious bias to influence governance. The cleric noted that Nigeria has been governed by both Muslims and Christians, stressing that politics should not be used to promote religious divisions, nor should religion be exploited for political gains. He appealed to politicians in government to uphold fairness in their leadership. Additionally, he urged religious leaders to consistently remind politicians of their campaign promises and to promote contentment and integrity among their followers.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Seun Oladeji clarified that the Ramadan Lecture was not politically motivated. He explained that the event was initiated to honor the sacred month of Ramadan, with the full support of Hon. Gbenga Akinola, the Executive Chairman of Saki West Local Government. Hon. Oladeji, a Christian, shared his personal connection to Islam, revealing that his paternal grandmother was a Muslim. He emphasized the importance of religious harmony and unity, urging people to see themselves as one, regardless of religious affiliations. He assured attendees that the Ramadan Lecture would become an annual event and called on religious leaders to pray for peace, unity, and development in Nigeria, Oyo State, and Saki West in particular. He also expressed gratitude to stakeholders, government officials, and invited guests for their participation.
Representing the Okere of Saki, High Chief Jimoh Babalola, the Baale Sepeteri of Saki, encouraged attendees to apply the knowledge gained from the lecture. He also urged the government to empower citizens through soft loans to help alleviate poverty. The Special Assistant to the Governor of Oyo State on Political Matters, Alhaji Waheed Oluwakemi, commended Hon. Oladeji for organizing the event, urging him to remain committed to such initiatives. Similarly, a former Saki West Local Government Chairman, Engr. Mudasiru Busari (popularly known as Eruobodo), praised the guest lecturer for his insightful presentation. He encouraged attendees to continuously seek knowledge and expressed appreciation to Hon. Oladeji for his efforts in promoting religious engagement.
The event was well attended by notable personalities, including Sanitarian Shittu M.A, the Acting Head of Local Government Administration, directors, deputies, unit heads, staff, politicians, and other key stakeholders.
