The Palace of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has dismissed reports suggesting that a new Chief Imam has been appointed for the historic town.
Bode Durojaye, Director of Media and Publicity to the monarch, described the reports as false and misleading in a statement issued in Ibadan, Oyo State.
“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 the public are advised to disregard such unfounded and baseless claims, as no candidate has been chosen for the number one Islamic seat in Oyo town,” Durojaye said.
He explained that the selection process is still ongoing, with consultations being conducted to ensure fairness.
“The appointment of a new Chief Imam of Oyo is proceeding through due process and extensive consultations. His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, the Alaafin and Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom, has urged the people to remain calm and peaceful, as the rightful candidate will be announced in due course,” he added.
Durojaye also emphasized that the appointment of the Chief Imam is solely within the Alaafin’s authority.
PUNCH Online reports that the previous Chief Imam, Sheikh Mashood Ajokidero, passed away in late January 2023, leaving a vacancy that has yet to be officially filled.
The delay has sparked calls for clarity, with groups such as the Muslim Rights Concern criticizing what they described as excessive delay, noting that “two good years have elapsed without a Chief Imam.”
Debate has also continued over the Alaafin’s role in the appointment and turbaning of the Chief Imam. While tradition grants the Alaafin significant influence, many argue that the local Muslim community must also have input in the process.
