The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, has openly supported the embattled Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, Talihat Yunus Ayilara, asserting that traditional rulers do not possess the authority to remove religious leaders.
This statement comes after the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, appointed Habib Ayilara as the Chief Imam for his palace last Friday—a decision seen by the Muslim community as an attempt to replace Talihat Ayilara.
Tensions between Chief Imam Talihat Ayilara and Oba Olaoye have escalated recently, leading to a legal battle currently being heard in an Oyo State High Court. The lawsuit seeks the removal of Talihat Ayilara from his position as the Chief Imam.
In response to the controversy, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) condemned Oba Olaoye’s move, describing it as a covert effort to undermine Islam and manipulate the Muslim community in Ogbomoso.
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However, in a statement released on Tuesday, Oba Alao urged MURIC to exercise restraint, emphasizing that key stakeholders in Ogbomoso are committed to preserving unity within the Muslim community.
My attention, along with those of other elders and key stakeholders in Ogbomoso, has been drawn to MURIC’s concerns regarding the appointment of Habib Ayilara as the Palace Chief Imam by His Royal Majesty Oba Ghandi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso,” stated Oba Alao.
He continued, “While MURIC’s concerns are acknowledged, I urge the organization to remain calm as various stakeholders are actively addressing the situation. Ogbomoso is a community where people of diverse religious backgrounds coexist peacefully.”
As a prominent figure in Ogbomoso and the Vice Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Alao assured MURIC and concerned Nigerians that efforts are underway to ensure that the Muslim community in Ogbomoso remains united.
I want to assure MURIC and others who are worried about this unfortunate situation that we will not allow any actions that could lead to division within the Ogbomoso Muslim community,” he added.
Oba Alao also pointed out that the legal dispute is still ongoing, meaning that Talihat Ayilara remains the Chief Imam unless the court rules otherwise. He warned those attempting to incite division to desist or face consequences.
As a senior traditional ruler, I am fully aware that monarchs do not hold executive authority over Chief Imams or other religious leaders. Our role is largely advisory when it comes to religious groups within our domains. Only the government has the constitutional right to remove a religious leader, and even then, it must be done through a lawful process,” Oba Alao stated.
He further emphasized the importance of traditional rulers promoting unity and truth within their communities, rather than fostering division.
“I, the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, stand firmly with Chief Imam Talihat Yunus Olushina Ayilara. He should continue his duties as the rightful Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, as chosen by the Muslim community,” Oba Alao concluded.
He reassured MURIC and all concerned parties that there is no need for alarm, as the matter is currently before the court, and key stakeholders in Ogbomoso support Chief Imam Talihat Yunus Olushina Ayilara.