On 21st of Jumadal-Akhirah, 1443AH corresponding 24th January, 2022, the newly installed Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosho, Sheikh Toliat Yunus Ayilara visited Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdul Rasheed Adewale Akanbi, and Sheikh Daood Imran Molaasan, the Grand Mufti of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, in Iwo, State of Osun. This was made known through a statement from the Office of the Grand Mufti.
During his remarks, the chief Imam who came along with the Khalifah Al-Monsuur Ejide, the C.E.O. Ejide Foundation and Mufasir Ogbomosho, urged the Grand Mufti to use his office to promote Yoruba Islam and bring back its dignity. He recommended a big Islamic centre for “Daaru Iftaa”, where Muslims’ scholars (in both revealed and acquired knowledge) across the region will be holding a meeting/conference, and having discussion on matters relating to Deen and affairs of Yoruba Muslims.
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In his response, Sheikh Daood Imran Molaasan said, everything the Imam mentioned was all in his plan. He also requested from influential Muslims to identify themselves with Islam. “Many Muslims who are prominent and influential are not identifying themselves with Islam. We need the likes of Baba Ejide to associate themselves with Muslims. They all have roles to play, apart adding value to our Islam.
“Even if they are lacking in some areas of deen, we must not repel them, rather than manage them. This is because, no one can fill up their roles when we are to establish our Islam, and build Islamic structure in Yorubaland” he explained.
The statement added that, the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdul Rasheed Adewale Akanbi, in his Palace, encouraged the Chief Imam to wear the mask of fearless, and fear no foe while discharging his duties. He congratulated the Ogbomosho Muslims for having a very young, talented and educated brother as Imam, and wished they also do the same for New Soun Ogbomosho that will be installed. Oluwo said, “it is a New Dawn in Yorubaland and from Iwo, a new structure for Yoruba Muslims will be created with the help of those who believe in the struggle”.
