By Peter Omopo
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has dismissed reports claiming that a new Chief Imam has been appointed for the ancient town.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaye, the monarch described the reports as false and misleading, urging residents to disregard them.
“The attention of the Alaafin’s Palace has been drawn to wild speculations that a new Chief Imam has been appointed for Oyo. The good people of Oyo and members of the public are advised to disregard such unfounded and baseless information, as no candidate has been chosen for the number one Islamic seat in Oyo town,” Durojaye said.
He explained that the process of selecting a new Chief Imam was still ongoing, with consultations being carried out to ensure fairness and inclusivity.
“The selection of a new Chief Imam of Oyo is undergoing due process and wider consultations. His Imperial Majesty, the Alaafin and Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom, has urged the people to remain calm and peaceful, as the rightful choice will be made in due course,” he added.
Durojaye further emphasized that the appointment of the Chief Imam remained the exclusive preserve of the Alaafin.
The position became vacant following the death of the former Chief Imam, Sheikh Mashood Ajokidero, in January 2023. Since then, calls have grown for clarity on the succession process, with some groups, including the Muslim Rights Concern, criticizing what they describe as excessive delay.
The debate has also reignited discussions over the Alaafin’s traditional role in the appointment and turbaning of the Chief Imam, with some arguing that the local Muslim community should play a larger role in the process.
