The installation of Sheikh Habeeb Ayilara as the new Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland has sparked controversy, as the position of the incumbent Chief Imam, Sheikh Teliat Yunus Olusina Ayilara, remains uncertain.
The new Imam was turbaned by the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, at the Abata section of the palace, in the presence of Muslim leaders and dignitaries.
However, the Parakoyi of Ogbomosoland, Alhaji Sirajudeen Aleem, clarified that the new Imam would only serve as the Chief Imam of the palace, pending the outcome of a court case involving the incumbent Chief Imam.
Oba Ghandi emphasized the importance of religious harmony and noted that the throne of the Soun is rooted in traditional religion, warning against making it a religious issue.
Oba Ghandi said, “the throne is that of the traditionalists. Soun Ogunlola who founded the throne was a pure traditionalist; he worshiped Ogun deity. We Christians and Muslims are just intruding so to say, it originally belongs the traditional religion worshipers so we should encourage religious harmony. It neither belongs to either of us Christians nor Muslims, they are only lending us the throne, eni a fi rolo to ni toun baje kinni ki oloro o wa se.
“Let me clear this the the event of today is not the bus stop, we are yet to reach our destination, the bus only stopped to pick someone. I have refused to remove him (the incumbent Chief Imam Teliat) despite him taking me to court. But I told him you can’t take me to court and be leading me in prayer, we don’t go to court and become friends. You that took me to court your intention is to win, to win against the Oba, and you call yourself an indigene of this town. Such prayer can’t be answered I believe. I am a pastor, if I take my member to court will I lead in prayer and such member will say amen?”
Oba Ghandi further said, “Today’s event marks my birthday. It is historical. The person we installed today we conducted thorough research, we don’t want to make such mistake again. I have been an alfa (pastor) for 32 years, I believe Imam Teliat was still wearing pant then. That is the truth. And as Christians we don’t mount the pulpit to abuse a king, l don’t know your religion much but in Christendom we don’t do that, although there are some pastors that say nonsense too. We should give reverence to God the creator on the pulpit not like he is doing on the mumbar.
“Parakoyi has been leading prayer in the palace and representing me, but I told him we need an Imam who will be representing me where I am invited regarding religious matter.”
The new Imam was later presented with the staff and certificate of office by the Asoju Muslumi of Ogbomosoland, Alhaji Mikahel Misasco.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.