From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Prominent Islamic scholars and political figures, converged on the inner palace of the Emir of Ilorin recently for a special prayer session aimed at seeking divine intervention for Nigeria’s peace and progress, as well as successful leadership for President Bola Tinubu and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State.
The prayer, convened by the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, drew Islamic clerics from across Ilorin Emirate.
According to the Emir, the prayer became necessary to seek Allah’s guidance and protection for the country and its leaders in the face of various national challenges.
“We are gathered to ask Allah to restore peace to troubled areas in the country and to support the efforts of President Tinubu and Governor AbdulRazaq in building a better Nigeria and Kwara State,” the Emir said.
Leading the prayers was the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Soliu, supported by other respected clerics including the Imam Imale, Sheikh AbdulHamid Abdullahi, and the Grand Mufti of Ilorin, Sheikh Sulaiman Onikijipa.
Representing Governor AbdulRazaq at the prayer was a government delegation led by his Special Adviser and Counselor, Alhaji Saadu Salahu, who described the Emir’s gesture as an act of fatherly support and spiritual backing.
“The Emir, as a respected custodian of Islam and tradition, has again demonstrated his commitment to the development of Kwara and Nigeria by organising this prayer,” Salahu told journalists.
“Ilorin has always been a spiritual hub, and the palace remains a revered place for divine supplications.”
He noted that Governor AbdulRazaq’s respectful relationship with traditional institutions and his visible achievements over the last six years have earned him widespread admiration.
“Governor AbdulRazaq has made the Emir proud with his remarkable governance style and achievements,” he said. “This is not the first time the Emir is supporting his son, the Governor, with prayers, and it speaks volumes about their bond and shared vision for the state.”
Salahu also highlighted Kwara’s reputation for peace and stability under AbdulRazaq’s administration, citing commendations from national security bodies.
“Top security chiefs and institutions have all rated Kwara as one of the most peaceful states in the country. That stability is a testament to the Governor’s leadership,” he added.
The prayer session was attended by politicians, government officials, religious leaders, and community stakeholders, all united in their call for divine favour on the nation’s leaders and continued peace in Kwara and Nigeria at large.