Alaafin speaks on appointing new Oyo Chief Imam

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has dismissed reports that a new Chief Imam has been appointed in the ancient town.

The monarch, through his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaye, described the reports as “false, baseless and wicked.”

“The attention of the Alaafin’s Palace has been drawn to wild speculations milling around that a new Chief Imam has been appointed for Oyo. The good people of Oyo and members of the public are advised to disregard such unfounded information as no candidate has been chosen for the number one Islamic seat in Oyo town,” the statement read.

Durojaye explained that the process of selecting a new Chief Imam is still ongoing, stressing that consultations are being carried out to ensure fairness. He added that the appointment remains the exclusive preserve of the Alaafin.

Recall that the former Chief Imam of Oyo, Sheikh Mashood Ajokidero, died in January 2023, leaving the position vacant for more than two years. The delay has sparked criticisms, with groups like the Muslim Rights Concern accusing the palace of dragging its feet.

Tradition holds that the Alaafin plays a major role in the appointment of the Chief Imam, but some sections of the Muslim community insist that the local ummah should also have a decisive say.