Soun of Ogbomosoland turbaned new Islamic leader

August 31, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, has approved the appointment of a new Imam for the palace.

The appointment was made by the League of Imams and Alfas of Ogbomosoland, Imam-in-council, Islamic special committee, and other Muslim leaders.

The Sheikh, Habeeb Ayilara, was turbaned as the new Imam in a ceremony attended by a large gathering of Muslims, including notable leaders such as Parakoyi of Ogbomosoland Alhaji Sirajudeen Aleem and Senator Fatai Buhari (represented by Alhaji Yekinni Woleola).

However, the Parakoyi adinni of Ogbomosoland clarified that the new Imam’s role is limited to the palace and does not affect the position of the embattled Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland, Sheikh Teliat Yunus Olusina Ayilara, whose case is currently in court.

Oba Ghandi emphasized the importance of religious harmony and respect for the traditional institution, stating that the throne belongs to the traditionalists and not to any particular religion. He also expressed his desire for an Imam who can represent him in religious matters and lead prayers within the palace.

The new Imam was presented with the staff and certificate of office by the Asoju Muslumi of Ogbomosoland, Alhaji Mikahel Misasco. Oba Ghandi noted that the event marks his birthday and is a historic moment, emphasizing that thorough research was conducted before selecting the new Imam.

In his remark, the Soun chastised those trying to make the throne of the Soun a religious issue pointing out that the “throne is that of the traditionalists. Soun Ogunlola our progenitor who founded the throne was a pure traditionalist; he worshiped Ogun deity, he embraced the two religions when they got to Ogbomoso.

“We Christians and Muslims are just intruding so to say, it originally belongs the traditional religion worshipers so we should encourage religious harmony for any one who got to the throne. It neither belongs to either of us Christians nor Muslims, they are only lending us the throne, eni a fóró ló to ni toun baje kinni ki oloro o wa se.

I may not know how it is done in Islam but in Christendom we don’t do that (Pulpit & Mumbar is sacred), we don’t go to the mumbar to insult people, calling the king a criminal. although there are some pastors that say nonsense too on pulpit. We should give reverence to God the creator on the pulpit not like he is doing on the mumbar.

“Parakoyi Adini 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.”