A fresh war of words has erupted between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, over religious identity as political campaigns intensify ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
The APC deputy governorship candidate, Mr. Benjamin Adereti, accused Governor Adeleke of sending conflicting signals about his religious affiliation, while the governor defended his administration’s record, insisting it has done more for the Muslim community than previous governments.
Speaking during the 70th anniversary celebration of the Union Baptist Church in Osogbo, Adereti said the APC was not exploiting religion for political gain but had deliberately presented a Muslim-Christian ticket that reflects religious inclusiveness.
He noted that the party’s governorship candidate, Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji, is a Muslim, while he, as the running mate, is a Christian, describing the arrangement as a balanced representation of the state’s religious diversity.
Adereti questioned the religious identity of Governor Adeleke, claiming it remained unclear whether the governor identifies as a Christian or a Muslim.
Expressing confidence in the APC’s chances, he said the party expects widespread support from voters and believes its candidates will emerge victorious in the August 15 governorship election.
Responding shortly afterward during a meeting with members of the Muslim community in Osogbo, Governor Adeleke dismissed the criticism and challenged the APC to compare its record on issues affecting Muslims with that of his administration.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor said his government has implemented several initiatives that directly benefit the Muslim community.
According to Adeleke, his administration is close to completing the state’s Hajj camp, a project he said previous administrations failed to execute despite spending years in office.
He also highlighted the construction of a mosque within the Government House, describing it as another demonstration of his administration’s commitment to the welfare and interests of Muslims in the state.
The governor further stated that Muslims occupy key positions in his administration and are well represented across government appointments and public offices.
Adeleke maintained that his achievements speak louder than political accusations, urging residents to judge leaders by their actions rather than rhetoric as the election approaches.
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