In a bold step toward fostering inclusivity and accountability in the Nigerian political space, the Political Awareness Group (PAG) has convened a high-profile Stakeholders’ State Conference in Saki, Oke Ogun axis of Oyo State.
The conference, themed “Muslims’ Participation in Governance and Development in Southwest Nigeria,” brought together eminent personalities, political stakeholders, Islamic scholars, and community leaders to deliberate on the role of Muslims in shaping governance and driving regional development.
The event was chaired by the former Minister of Communications, Barr. Hon. Abdur-Raheem Adebayo Shittu, who praised PAG’s unwavering commitment to political enlightenment and democratic advocacy.
He lauded the group’s efforts in “shaping the government and governance in Nigeria,” while issuing a clarion call for equitable political representation in Oyo State.
He emphasized that Oke Ogun must be given fair consideration in the 2027 governorship race, marking a critical step toward regional equity and justice in leadership distribution.
Prominent traditional leader, High Chief Gasali Adegoke, the Baggi of Saki, encouraged members of the PAG to remain resolute, focused, and to resist political manipulation. “You are the torchbearers of political consciousness in this region,” he said. “Do not let any politician use your platform as a tool for personal ambition.”
The keynote lecture was delivered by renowned Islamic scholar and public affairs analyst, Dr. Luqman Olowonjaye, who dissected the core theme with intellectual depth.
He emphasized the need for Muslim engagement in governance not merely as participants, but as reformers guided by Islamic virtues of justice, accountability, and service to humanity.
Dr. Olowonjaye highlighted transparency as the bedrock of leadership in Islam, asserting that “a Muslim in governance must see leadership as trust, not privilege.”
Adding a reflective dimension to the discussion, Alhaji Sulaiman Oroyinyin, retired Commissioner of Police and former Chairman of the Saki Muslim Community, urged the group to consistently assess their intentions and strategies to ensure their work yields meaningful impact.
“Purity of intent is the first step to impactful leadership,” he said, advising PAG to pursue results that resonate with the people.
Dr. Y. Y. Muslim, in his remarks, clarified prevailing misconceptions about PAG’s objectives. “Many initially misconstrued this initiative as a covert religious campaign.”
“But attending the conference and hearing the discourse firsthand has opened my eyes to the nobility of PAG’s vision. I now wholeheartedly support their mission.” he said.
The State Chairman of PAG, Dr. Lukman Tunde Fasasi, delivered a compelling closing address in which he expressed heartfelt appreciation to all attendees and stakeholders.
He reiterated the group’s non-partisan, inclusive ideology, stressing that PAG is not a political front for any region, sect, or party. “Our allegiance lies with the development of Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole,” he said. “We welcome collaboration across all divides.”
The event was graced by a host of dignitaries including representatives of key political figures: Senator Fatai Omotayo Buhari (represented by Alhaji Jimoh Azeez), Hon. Kareem Tajudeen Abisodun (represented by Alhaji Thabit Olofa), and Hon. Shittu Ibraheem Aremu (represented by Hon. Sulaiman Seriki).
Other notable attendees included Alhaja Amudalat Balogun, former political office holders in Oyo State, and various stakeholders from civil society and religious communities.
