ILESA-IJESA/Nigeria: The aftermath of the 2026 Osun governorship election has prompted a renewed call for reconciliation in Ijesaland, with the Bishop of Ijesa North Anglican Diocese, Rt. Revd. Dr Isaac Oluyamo, urging residents to put political disagreements behind them and rebuild community relationships.
Oluyamo made the appeal during a prayer session at Open Heaven Anglican Church, Ilase-Ijesa, where he specifically urged people in the Ife/Ijesa Senatorial District to accept Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi’s apology and embrace peace.
The bishop also committed Fadahunsi’s public service to God and encouraged constituents to consider his contributions to the district, including initiatives focused on youth empowerment and community development.
He said political contests were temporary, stressing that family relationships, friendships and the stability of communities should not be sacrificed because of disagreements arising from elections.
The call comes after Fadahunsi apologised in August over the tension generated by remarks he made before the Osun governorship election. The senator said his comments had been made at a difficult moment following the deaths of members of his political party and maintained that he did not intend to promote violence.
The bishop’s intervention also came against the background of continuing political disagreements following the August 15 governorship election. INEC records confirm that the Osun governorship poll was held on August 15, 2026.
As part of his prayers for the state, Oluyamo congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his victory and prayed for wisdom, strength and divine direction as he begins another term in office.
He also prayed for the protection of residents and communities across Osun State, including prayers against road accidents, sudden deaths and other tragedies.
The cleric extended his message beyond electoral politics, urging residents to focus on issues capable of strengthening the social and economic development of the state.
He further visited the proposed site of Obokun University in Ilase-Ijesa, where he prayed for the successful completion of the project and its eventual contribution to education and opportunities for young people in the area.
The service also featured prayers for the ember months and a retirement tribute to The Revd. Canon Julius Olufemi and Mrs Mary Kehinde Adekunle, who were honoured for their years of service to the church.
Drawing from Psalm 23, Oluyamo urged the congregation to maintain faith and trust in God through changing political circumstances.
His message ultimately centred on reconciliation, calling on residents to forgive past grievances, repair strained relationships and work collectively for peace and development across Ijesaland.
