May 27: APM Candidate Ibikunle Calls for Prayers and Unity

A Candidate of Allied People’s Movement (APM) for House of Assembly, Ibadan NorthWest State Constituency, Olayinka Gbolahan Ibikunle, has extended heartfelt felicitations to residents of Oyo State and Nigerians at large on the occasion of the 2026 Eid al-Kabir and Children’s Day celebration holding on May 27.

In his goodwill message, Ibikunle described the twin celebration as a significant reminder of sacrifice, obedience, love, and the need to invest more in the wellbeing and future of children across the country.

He congratulated Muslim faithful for witnessing another Eid al-Kabir, while also celebrating Nigerian children as the foundation of national development and future leadership.

However, the APM candidate noted that the celebrations have been overshadowed by the tragic abduction of students and teachers in Ogbomoso, as well as the heartbreaking killing of one of the teachers during the attack.

He expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family, the affected school community, and the entire people of Oyo State, describing the incident as painful, unacceptable, and a serious blow to the state’s sense of safety.

Ibikunle also commiserated with Governor Seyi Makinde, urging him and the state government to remain resolute in efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted victims.

According to him, “This is a very difficult moment for Oyo State. While we mark Eid al-Kabir and Children’s Day, our hearts are heavy for the innocent children and teachers who have been taken. We pray for their quick and safe release.”

He called on religious leaders, parents, and citizens across the state to use the occasion of Eid al-Kabir to intensify prayers for peace, stability, and divine intervention in Nigeria’s security challenges.

The APM candidate further emphasized that Nigerian children must not be allowed to grow in fear, stressing that urgent steps are needed to restore confidence in the education system and public safety.

He also expressed concern over what he described as the rising insecurity across the country, warning that if not urgently addressed, it could further threaten peaceful communities in the South-West and beyond.

Ibikunle urged the Federal Government to strengthen security operations, improve intelligence gathering, and ensure better protection for schools, rural communities, and vulnerable populations.

He concluded by wishing all Muslim faithful a peaceful Eid al-Kabir celebration and encouraging children across Oyo State and Nigeria to remain hopeful, resilient, and focused on a brighter future.