Controversy in Ogbomoso as Soun appoints new Imam

The installation of Sheikh Habeeb Ayilara as the new Chief Imam by the Soun of Ogbomoso land, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye has begun to generate controversy, as the position of the incumbent Chief Imam, Sheikh Teliat Yunus Olusina Ayilara, remain unknown.

The new Imam was turbaned in the presence of Muslim leaders and dignitaries by Soun at the Abata section of the palace.

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.

Soun emphasized the importance of religious harmony, saying that the throne of Soun was rooted in traditional religion, warning against making it a religious issue.

The monarch said, “The throne is that of the traditionalists. Soun Ogunlola who founded the throne was a pure traditionalist; he worshiped the Ogun deity.

“We Christians and Muslims are just
intruding so to say, it originally belonged to 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 event of today is not the bus stop, we are yet to reach our destination, the bus only stopped to pick up 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 l take my member to court will 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 conducted thorough research, and we don’t want to make such a mistake again.

“I have been an alfa (pastor) for 32 years, I believe Imam Teliat was still wearing pants then. That is the truth. And as Christians, we don’t mount the pulpit to abuse a king, I don’t know your religion much but in Christendom, we don’t do that, although some pastors 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 matters.”

The new Imam was later presented with staff and a certificate of office by the Asoju Muslumi of Ogbomosoland, Alhaji Mikahel Misasco.