In the wake of a controversial mosque demolition in Aramoko Local Government Area, the Ekiti State Government has moved swiftly to restore calm and assure the Muslim community of its dedication to religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye held a reconciliation meeting with top Islamic leaders under the umbrella of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (SCIA). The engagement was part of efforts to de-escalate tensions following the removal of the mosque, which had generated public outcry from various quarters of the Muslim faithful.
The structure was reportedly taken down to make space for an ultra-modern market—an initiative spearheaded by the Senate Leader and Ekiti Central Senator, Opeyemi Bamidele, as part of his constituency development projects.
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During the dialogue, Deputy Governor Afuye emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring justice and maintaining inter-religious harmony across the state. She revealed that the Alara-in-Council, led by Oba Olu Adeyemi, the traditional ruler of Aramoko Ekiti and himself a Muslim, had already designated a new plot of land for the reconstruction of the mosque.
“I am particularly pleased that the Alara of Aramoko is a devout Muslim. He would never preside over any arrangement that compromises the rights of fellow Muslims,” Afuye remarked.
She also pledged that the government would soon organize a broader stakeholders’ forum to deliberate on the matter and arrive at a lasting, peaceful solution.
Afuye further clarified that the market project was conceived to serve the entire community and that the provision of a replacement site for the mosque reflects mutual respect and understanding within the town.
In his response, Dr. Hameed Bakare, President of the Ekiti State SCIA, lauded the government for its prompt response and peaceful approach. He expressed optimism that Governor Biodun Oyebanji would ensure a fair and lasting resolution.
“We are hopeful that this issue will be resolved amicably and without delay. We trust that Governor Oyebanji will not allow tensions to escalate,” Dr. Bakare said.
However, the Chief Imam of Aramoko Ekiti, Alhaji Abdul-Raheem Bamigbola, voiced deeper concerns. He highlighted that this was the second mosque demolished within six months in the area due to developmental activities, with little to no progress made on rebuilding efforts.
“We support development, but our places of worship must be respected and relocated suitably,” the Imam stressed. “While we recognize Senator Bamidele’s contributions, we expect him to uphold his promise to construct a new mosque for the community.”
The Ekiti State Government reiterated its stance on fairness and religious freedom, calling on all parties to remain peaceful as steps are taken to address the issue comprehensively.