Excitement as Ibadan lawyer, Bilal Akinola, becomes Grand Chief Imam of Oyo

*As The DEFENDER Newspaper unveils photographs of the Grand Imam’s homage to Sultan and Leader of Muslims of Nigeria 

Professor Alaro explained the symbolism of the staff presented to the Grand Chief Imam, noting that it signifies that all religious matters in Oyo now rest with him. He stated that Oyo is fortunate to have Barrister Hussayn Bilal Akeugberu as Grand Chief Imam because he is deeply rooted in Islamic knowledge and guided by the fear of Allah.

The city of Oyo was agog on Saturday as Muslim faithful, traditional rulers, scholars, and community members thronged the ancient town for the historic turbaning of the new Grand Chief Imam of Oyo, Barrister Husayn Akewugberu.

The colourful ceremony, held within the Alaafin’s Palace, attracted an impressive crowd from across Nigeria, reflecting the weight of the office and the deep respect accorded to Islamic leadership in the city.

Renowned Islamic scholar, Professor Abdulrazzaq Abdulmajeed Alaro, delivered the keynote lecture titled “The Role of Religious Leadership in Strengthening Community Development.”

In his remarks, he thanked His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, for the significant role he played in making the day a reality and urged him to remain steadfast in his devotion to Allah.

Professor Alaro explained the symbolism of the staff presented to the Grand Chief Imam, noting that it signifies that all religious matters in Oyo now rest with him.

He stated that Oyo is fortunate to have Barrister Hussayn Bilal Akewugberu as Grand Chief Imam because he is deeply rooted in Islamic knowledge and guided by the fear of Allah.

He emphasized that obedience to the Imam is compulsory upon residents and indigenes, likening the responsibility to the early Muslims’ loyalty to Abu Bakr (RA).

Referring to the sincerity of Imam Malik who answered only four of forty questions posed to him because he feared speaking without certainty, he encouraged scholars to uphold truth and integrity.

Speaking further on his long personal acquaintance with the new Imam, Professor Alaro said, “I have known him for more than 36 years.

He is versed in Islamic knowledge, and the knowledge controls him—he does not twist it to suit his desires. If you want anything from him, just quote a verse of the Qur’an to support your request.”

Chairman of the Imamate Committee and Khaadimul Muslimeen, Imam Daud Igiogun, also addressed the gathering. He expressed gratitude to HIM Oba Akeem Owoade and acknowledged everyone who contributed to the success of the event, including the Aare Musulumi of Oyo Land, Alhaji Tajudeen Adebayo Kamarise, Professor Nurain Tanimowo, Professor Nassar, the Otunmole, Osimole, and Pakoyi. He also offered special appreciation to the Chairman of the Day, Alhaji Abdulhameed Mansur Ejide.

The Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland, Dr. Tolha Yunus Ayilara, in his goodwill message, congratulated the newly turbaned Grand Chief Imam and advised him to prepare for the responsibilities ahead. He urged him to focus on the development of Islam across Oyo and prayed for unprecedented progress and divine blessings for the land.

The event was graced by a host of dignitaries, among them the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Bayo Lawal; Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; Sheikh Abdulmajeed Abata who represented the Chief Imam of Ibadanland; Honourable Akeem Adeniyi Adeyemi (Skimeh); Princess Afolashade; Muhammad Buhari from Madrasatul Aroby Nigeria; the Mudeer of Madrasatul Aroby Nigeria, Dr. Nasirudeen Abdulsalam; Sheikh Ramadan Zuglul Al-Ketuwy; Dr. Amao Alaga; Alhaji Kunle Sanni, Chairman Muslim Community of Oyo State; the Magajis of Ajokidero and Akeugberu; and Professor Kakuri of Al-Hikmah University.

Other important personalities are Sheikh Dhikrullah Yahyah; Professor Isa Adebayo Bello; Professor Qasim Badmus of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin; Dr. Tajudeen Abefe Oladejo, a NAHCON Commissioner; Dr. Misbahudeen Opabode; Sheikh Yusuf Adepoju of ACADIP; Saheed Shittu; Abdulra’an Soliu Gbagere; Abdulrahman Mante; Baba Lagbeni; and Sheikh Olafenwa, the Chief Imam of Ilora.

Speakers and attendees collectively prayed for Allah’s guidance, wisdom, and strength for the new Grand Chief Imam as he takes on this revered position. Many expressed optimism that Barrister Hussayn Akewugberu will build on the legacies of his predecessors, deepen unity among Muslims in Oyo, and champion the growth and advancement of Islam in the land.

The turbaning marks a new and promising chapter for the Muslim community in Oyo, and the hopes of the Ummah now rest on the leadership, knowledge, and devotion of its newly installed Grand Chief Imam.

Other photos from the event below: