Former Minister of Communications, Barrister Adebayo Shittu, has called on Nigerians, particularly Muslims, Christians, and adherents of other faiths across Yorubaland, to remain united, peaceful, and vigilant amid what he described as a sensitive and delicate period in the nation’s history.
In a statement Shittu issued on Friday, November 27, 2025, and personally signed from abroad, where he is on official assignment, Shittu stressed that Nigeria can only progress when its diverse communities work together, respect one another, and refuse to be swayed by divisive narratives aimed at undermining peaceful coexistence.
Shittu also debunked recent viral posts and photos circulating online, which attempt to link him with extremist sympathisers or certain political subgroups.
The Debunked Photo
He described the materials as false, misleading, and deliberately crafted to damage his reputation.
Addressing claims surrounding his brief appearance at the recently concluded Southern Ulamah Conference held at the University of Ibadan (U), where he was seen side by side with a renowned Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, praying in a mosque, Shittu issued a three-point clarification.
According to him, he neither hosted nor invited anyone alleged to be a terrorist sympathiser to the gathering; he is not affiliated with any faction, gang, or political bloc associated with the event; and his attendance was only as a passing guest while en route abroad.
He noted that he neither delivered a speech nor held any meeting that could be interpreted as having political or extremist undertones.
He urged the public to disregard insinuations suggesting otherwise, describing them as baseless.
Shittu further appealed to Nigerians, including media practitioners, opinion leaders, and social media users, to act responsibly and refrain from promoting unverified accusations capable of inciting fear or sowing division.
“At a time when false narratives spread faster than truth, we must all act with responsibility and restraint. Let us focus on building a more secure, tolerant, and united society,” he said.
The former minister reaffirmed his commitment to peace, interfaith harmony, good governance, and the collective progress of Yorubaland and Nigeria.
