APC Deputy Gov Candidate, Adeleke Clash Over Religion

Religion has become a fresh issue in the campaign for the August 15 Osun State governorship election following an exchange of words between the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate, Benjamin Adereti, and Governor Ademola Adeleke.

Speaking during the 70th anniversary celebration of the Union Baptist Church in Osogbo, Adereti questioned Adeleke’s religious identity, describing the governor as someone whose faith remains unclear.

The APC deputy governorship candidate said his party was not using religion for political gain but had ensured religious balance in its governorship ticket. He pointed out that the APC presented a Muslim-Christian ticket, with its governorship candidate, Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji, being a Muslim while he serves as the Christian running mate.

Adereti argued that the religious identity of the APC candidates was clear, unlike that of the governor, whom he claimed many people could not identify as either a Christian or a Muslim.

He also expressed confidence that the APC would emerge victorious in the August 15 election, saying the party believes it has the support of the people and expects voters to back its candidates at the polls.

Governor Adeleke responded shortly afterwards while addressing members of the Muslim community in Osogbo.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor defended his record, saying his administration has done more for the Muslim community than previous governments in the state.

Adeleke said work on the state’s Hajj camp is nearing completion, adding that earlier administrations failed to provide such a facility for intending pilgrims despite being in office for years.

He also said his government is constructing a mosque within the Government House, a project he claimed previous administrations did not undertake.

The governor further stated that many of his principal officers and cabinet members are Muslims, adding that his administration has ensured fair representation for members of the Muslim community in government appointments and other areas.

According to Adeleke, the true measure of a person’s commitment to any faith should be judged by their actions and the projects they deliver rather than by political statements or public claims.