The Ogbomoso Muslim Community has raised concerns over the ongoing conflict between the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Afolabi Olaoye, and the town’s Chief Imam, Sheik Teliat Yunus Ayilara, warning that the feud is threatening peace and stability in the area.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Alhaji Akintoye AbdusSalam Olla, Chairman of the Ogbomoso Muslim Community, expressed alarm over the deteriorating relationship between the traditional ruler and the religious leader, a situation that has persisted since Oba Olaoye ascended the throne.
The latest point of contention arose after Oba Olaoye appointed Habib Ayilara as the palace Imam, a move that has been heavily criticized by the Chief Imam’s supporters.
Olla emphasized in the statement that the escalating conflict is endangering the town’s harmony, and urged local and national stakeholders to intervene before the situation worsens.
He further alleged that the traditional ruler is attempting to take control of the town’s Central Mosque and remove Sheik Ayilara from his position as Chief Imam, despite two court injunctions prohibiting such actions.
“A deepening crisis is threatening the peace and stability of Ogbomoso, as the actions of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Pastor Ghandi Olaoye Orumogege III, spark tensions within the Muslim community,” Olla said. “The controversy, fueled by a disputed Imamship, has seen the monarch attempt to remove the widely respected Grand Chief Imam, Dr. Teliat Yunus Ayilara II, despite two court injunctions restraining such action.”
Olla also accused the palace of using intimidation and violence, and warned that plans to forcibly take over the Central Mosque with military force are aggravating the situation.
“The Muslim community is increasingly agitated, and community elders are making efforts to maintain peace. The followership of the Grand Chief Imam transcends all boundaries, making this a potential national security issue requiring swift attention,” Olla added.
He called for urgent intervention from authorities to de-escalate the tensions and restore peace in Ogbomoso.
However, Mr. Peter Olaleye, spokesperson for the traditional ruler, denied the allegations. In a phone conversation with *DAILY POST*, Olaleye dismissed the claims that Oba Olaoye is planning to remove the Chief Imam, stating, “As far as I know, there is nothing like that. We will not make any official statement, but there is nothing like that.”
The Ogbomoso community now waits for further developments as calls for mediation grow louder amidst fears of escalating tensions.
