Muslim leaders in Oyo State are urging residents to report any Islamic clerics or teachers (Mallams) who are engaged in unscrupulous practices contrary to the tenets of Islam to the appropriate authorities for investigation.
During a press conference on Saturday, Alhaji Isiaq Kunle Sanni, the chairman of the Muslim community, made this recommendation in response to the recent arrest of three individuals caught with human remains in Ibadan.
It should be noted that Muibi Ramoni Opeyemi, Taofeeq Olalekan Kabeloun, and Tayo Akinrinola were apprehended a few days ago in Ibadan with fresh human body parts.
Sanni emphasized that the community will closely monitor the case until the culprits are brought to justice. Additionally, the community will continue to follow the legal proceedings until those arrested face prosecution.
He strongly condemned this act and mentioned that the league of Imams and Alfas, led by the Chief Imam of Ibadan, plans to establish a disciplinary committee. This committee will receive reports of suspected Islamic clerics involved in unlawful activities for further investigation.
Furthermore, Sanni called on Muslims in the state not to take matters into their own hands.
He stated, “If anyone is spending money recklessly, report them. Before appointing anyone as a leader, we must thoroughly examine their background. We will diligently pursue this case until it reaches a logical conclusion.
“We should closely monitor the Mallams who are teaching our children the principles of Islam.
“The league of Imams and Alfas, led by the Chief Imam of Ibadan, Alhaji Abdulganiy Abubakri Agbotomokekere, is establishing a disciplinary committee to address Mallams suspected of engaging in un-Islamic practices. These individuals will face investigation and may be ostracized from the league as a form of punishment.
“While we call for caution and appeal to Muslims not to take the law into their own hands, we want the public to be aware of our commitment to see the prosecution of these individuals through to its rightful conclusion.”
