𝐀𝐥𝐚𝐚𝐟𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐎𝐲𝐨 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐈𝐦𝐚𝐦, 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐎𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬

The Palace of the Alaafin of Oyo has rubbished reports suggesting the appointment of a new Chief Imam for the historic town. According to Bode Durojaye, Director of Media and Publicity to the monarch, “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.”

Durojaye explained that the selection process is still ongoing, with extensive consultations being conducted to ensure fairness. “The appointment of a new Chief Imam of Oyo is proceeding through due process and extensive consultations,” he stated.

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has urged the people to remain calm and peaceful, assuring them that the rightful candidate will be announced in due course. “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,” Durojaye added.

The delay in appointing a new Chief Imam has sparked controversy, with the Muslim Rights Concern group criticizing the “excessive delay” and noting that “two good years have elapsed without a Chief Imam.” The group’s concerns highlight the ongoing debate over the Alaafin’s role in the appointment and turbaning of the Chief Imam, with some arguing that the local Muslim community should have a greater say in the process.

As the selection process continues, the community remains eager to know who will fill the vacant position left by the late Sheikh Mashood Ajokidero, who passed away in January 2023.