The newly turbaned Atunluse-Ilu Adini of Oyo State and former Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Owoseni (retd), on Saturday, described Oyo State as a model of religious harmony, declaring that Christians and Muslims coexist as one indivisible family in the state.
Owoseni made the remark while appreciating political associates, dignitaries, political leaders and top government functionaries who graced the reception of his turbaning ceremony, which held at Agodi Gardens, Ibadan, noting that their presence reflected the deep-rooted culture of unity under the current administration.
The retired Police Chief appreciated the presence of the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal; the newly appointed Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Babatunde Musibau, whom he described as “a very brilliant young gentleman,” noting his previous service as Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning.
He especially appreciated a member, Oyo State Advisory Council, Alhaja Monsurat Sunmonu, while commending the Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi, who, despite being a Christian, played a commendable role and show of solidarity during the Islamic rites.
He said, “I want to give appreciation and recognition to him. Critically, right from the mosque, despite the fact that the gentleman is not a Muslim, he became an Alfa today (Saturday), as he was in the mosque with us and played a very significant role.”
He expressed that the gesture symbolised the true identity of Oyo State beyond religious lines.
“Everyone needs to know that in Oyo State, it is not about Christian or Muslim, but we are a whole family in Oyo State. And that is in the person of our Chief of Staff, Chief Segun Ogunwuyi,” he added.
Owoseni further appreciated the several serving and former commissioners who attended the ceremony, including the Commissioner for Energy, Professor Shangodoyin; former Commissioner for Energy and Budget and Economic Planning, Barrister Seun Ashamu; the Commissioner for Lands, Akin Funmilayo, among others.
He similarly used the opportunity of the occasion to thank the Inspector General of Police, who was represented at the event by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 11, with the delegation arriving from Osogbo to honour him.
Owoseni had also thanked the entire Nigerian Police Force where he served humanity and the country for 35 years.
He said the massive turnout of top officials points to the strong institutional backing and sense of collective purpose in the state.
“Thank you all for being here. Despite the fact that they will say that CP Owoseni is a Police officer, all the political machinery and the public service machinery of the Oyo State are here,” he remarked.
Within the political circle, Owoseni acknowledged the presence of the Vice-Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, the PDP Publicity Secretary, Hon. Michael Ogunsina, the Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Hon. Akeem Olatunji and his Egbeda counterpart, Hon. Sanda.
Other notable personalities in attendance included Barrister Farinto, Dr. Ayodele; Member, Advisory Council of Oyo State, Hon. Babatunde Oduyoye; Business mogul, Babafemi Babalola (Jogor); Okanlomo of Ibadanland and Bada Olubadan, Chief Dotun Sanusi; Barrister Mutalubi Ojo and a host of others.
In a lighter moment, Owoseni celebrated international table tennis icon Waidi Ekun, who recently marked 50 years since winning an international gold medal, joking about his youthful looks and enduring vitality.
He specially appreciated the Personal Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde, Hon. Akeem Azeez, acknowledging his consistent involvement throughout the process, and thanked all guests for honouring him and reinforcing the message of unity, peace and mutual respect in Oyo State.
Earlier, the Grand Imam of Oyo State, His Eminence Sheikh AbdulGaniy Agbotomokekere, had turbaned the former Police Chief as the Alatunse-Ilu Adini of Oyo State, in a colourful manner.
The turbaning ceremony, which held at the Oja’Oba mosque amid prayers and Islamic supplications, witnessed the presence of top government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders and political stakeholders in the state.
While performing the turbaning rites, the Grand Imam described Owoseni as a disciplined, God-fearing, intelligent and service-driven personality whose career in the Nigeria Police Force reflected commitment, integrity and sacrifice.
“I want to tell you that this turban is a call to higher responsibility. As Atunluse-Ilu Adini, you must continue to stand for justice, peace and the protection of lives of the people, irrespective of tribe or religion,” the Grand Imam said.
He charged Owoseni to use his new religious position to promote unity among Muslims, foster peaceful coexistence with people of other faiths, and remain a moral compass in public and private life.
