By Ademola Adekusibe
November 12, 2025.
The Alaáfin of Oyo and Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abdul Hakeem Owoade, has appointed Barrister Alhaji Bilal Oseni Akinola as the new Chief Imam of Oyo Land.
According to a statement by the Director of Media and Publicity to the monarch, the appointment was contained in a letter personally signed by the Alaáfin.
Oba Owoade congratulated the new Chief Imam, describing his appointment as both a divine blessing and a sacred responsibility before Allah.
“Having passed through the due screening process, I have the pleasure to inform you that you have been selected as the new Chief Imam of Oyo,” the Alaáfin stated.
“The moment is not only significant for our people but also sacred in the eyes of Allah, for leadership in Islam demands humility, sincerity, and justice.”
Born on April 15, 1965, Alhaji Bilal Akinola hails from the Imam Ogunbado compound, Akeugberu, Oyo West Local Government Area. He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B Hons) degree from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, obtained in 1992, and completed his National Youth Service in Sokoto State in 1993.
He previously worked with the defunct National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) and later with the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) before voluntarily disengaging in 2015 to focus on Islamic propagation and community service.
The new Chief Imam has been actively involved in Da’wah activities, Islamic education, and advocacy for unity among the Muslim Ummah. He has presented papers and participated in national and regional conferences, including events organized by the Federation of International Women Lawyers (FIDA) and the National Assembly committees on constitutional review.
In his vision statement, Alhaji Akinola pledged to serve the Muslim community of Oyo Land with knowledge, discipline, and fairness, promoting peace and harmony in line with Islamic principles.
“Oyo is a city of historical prominence and religious heritage,” he said. “By Allah’s will, I shall dedicate my intellect and faith to guide our people with moderation, wisdom, and justice, devoid of extremism and intolerance.”
He prayed for continued peace and prosperity in Oyo Kingdom and divine guidance for the Alaáfin.
