By Shina Abubakar

OSOGBO — Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, exchanged pleasantries on Sunday as they joined other dignitaries at the final Fidau prayer for the late Alhaja Sidikat Basiru, mother of the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru.

The event, held at Fakunle Unity Comprehensive High School in Osogbo, brought together political leaders across party lines despite heightened political tensions ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state.

Governor Adeleke, the Accord Party candidate, attended the prayer alongside the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, and other aides.

Oyebamiji arrived with prominent APC leaders, including the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; former Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; and other party chieftains.

Also present were Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu; Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede; former JAMB Board Chairman, Prof. Olu Aina; and Oyo APC governorship candidate, Sharafadeen Alli.

The cordial exchange between Adeleke and Oyebamiji came against the backdrop of recent accusations and counter-accusations by members of both parties over alleged political violence ahead of the governorship poll.

Delivering the sermon, the Mufasir of Osogbo, Sheikh Abdulateef Abajaoro, reminded the gathering of the inevitability of death and urged Nigerians to live lives of righteousness and service.

He said worldly possessions, positions and influence would all come to an end after death, stressing that only three legacies endure: beneficial knowledge imparted during one’s lifetime, acts of charity that continue to benefit others, and righteous children who continue to pray for the deceased.

The cleric urged political leaders and members of the public to remain mindful of these enduring values in their daily lives and public service.