In a significant development for the Muslim community of Ikare-Akoko, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has ordered the reopening of the Ikare-Akoko Central Mosque, which had remained closed since October 18, 2022. The announcement was made on Tuesday during the annual “Iftar With Mr Governor” Ramadan fast-breaking prayer held in Akure, organised jointly by the state government and the Ondo State Muslim Welfare Board.
The governor, speaking before a congregation of prominent Islamic and traditional leaders, directed that Sheikh Abubakar Muhammed Abbas, who served as Chief Imam prior to the mosque’s closure, resume leadership of prayers and other Islamic activities in the town.
“Today, as Kabiyesi, Oba Akadri Momoh, the Olukare of Ikare, Grand Mufti himself, and Chief Imam of Ikare are present, I want to declare that the central mosque of Ikare is officially reopened,” Aiyedatiwa said, emphasizing the importance of religious harmony and community unity.
The reopening comes nearly 18 months after the mosque was shut, an action that had sparked concern among worshippers and religious leaders, who had called for dialogue and a resolution that would restore normalcy to the spiritual life of the community. The closure had disrupted regular congregational prayers and Islamic events, creating a void in communal religious activities.
Governor Aiyedatiwa described the reopening as a fulfillment of his administration’s commitment to promoting peace and respect for religious practices. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of traditional authorities, religious leaders, and state agencies in ensuring that the reopening process was smooth and accepted by all stakeholders.
Oba Akadri Momoh, the traditional ruler of Ikare-Akoko, lauded the governor for his intervention, noting that the reopening of the central mosque would restore harmony and strengthen communal ties in the town. He urged residents to continue to respect the leadership of the Chief Imam and maintain unity within the Muslim community.
The event was attended by key figures in Ondo State’s religious and political landscape, including the Grand Mufti, state government officials, and community elders, who witnessed the symbolic prayers marking the mosque’s reopening.
Sheikh Abubakar Muhammed Abbas, expressing gratitude, pledged to continue providing spiritual guidance and ensure that the mosque serves as a center for worship, learning, and communal development. He also called on the faithful to uphold peace and obedience to lawful authorities, reinforcing the governor’s message of harmony.
The reopening of Ikare-Akoko Central Mosque is being widely welcomed by residents, many of whom view it as a step toward healing divisions and restoring the town’s religious traditions. The governor’s action has been interpreted as a demonstration of his administration’s sensitivity to the concerns of religious communities, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.
Observers note that the move could also serve as a model for resolving similar disputes in other parts of the state, where engagement between government, religious authorities, and traditional rulers can foster peaceful resolutions and strengthen social cohesion.
As prayers resumed at the central mosque, worshippers expressed relief and joy, signaling a new chapter in Ikare-Akoko’s communal and spiritual life—one marked by cooperation, respect for tradition, and active government support for religious harmony.
