..Disunity among youths threatens societal growth, Says Ajala
The Osun State Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Hon. Moshood Olalekan Olagunju, has called on young people to embrace love and unity as a means to foster community development.
Speaking at the Ramadan & Lenten Lecture/Gift Sharing program organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs in Abere on Thursday, Olagunju emphasized that the progress of the state depends on how well the youth coexist peacefully.
“Without love, there can be no progress. When young people see one another as brothers and sisters, regardless of differences, they create an atmosphere where peace and development can thrive,” he said.
Themed “Genuine Love Among Youth for Community Development,” the event brought together government officials, religious leaders, and Youth to discuss the role of love in fostering peace and progress.
Aare Abdulmajid Oladimeji, Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Affairs and chief host of the event, described the program as timely, considering the ongoing Ramadan and Lenten seasons.
“This is a sacred period of reflection and prayers, but beyond that, it is an opportunity for us to foster peace. We cannot build a better Osun without unity,” he stated.
Also, while speaking, Hon. Adetunji Ajala David, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community and Grassroots Engagement, noted that disunity among youths threatens societal growth.
“No matter the level of infrastructural development, when the youth are divided, progress is hindered. This is why we must encourage initiatives that promote dialogue, unity, and collaboration,” he said.
Reverend Adedagbo Adebayo, one of the clerics and guest speakers at the event, emphasized that love is fundamental to peaceful coexistence.
“All men are made in the image of God, and part of that image is the love nature. If we truly reflect our Creator, we must embody and express love in our daily lives,” he said.
He linked past communal clashes, such as the crisis in Ifon-Ilobu, to a lack of love and misunderstanding.
“Conflicts often arise from land disputes and personal differences, but the Bible teaches that the earth belongs to God. When we understand that no one takes land to the afterlife, we will be more open to dialogue and peaceful resolutions,” he added.
Also, a Muslim cleric, Alhaji Oseni Mohammed Olatunji, also spoke from an Islamic perspective, emphasizing the need for peace and tolerance.
“Islam preaches love, peace, and the unity of mankind. If we embrace these values, conflicts like the one between Ifon and Ilobu would not escalate. Dialogue, patience, and understanding must always come first,” he said.
