Muslim Group Condemns Soun of Ogbomoso’s Actions Against Chief Imam

 **Muslim Group Condemns Soun of Ogbomoso’s Actions Against Chief Imam**

A coalition of Muslim professionals known as No Dull Moment in Islam (NDMI) has issued a strong condemnation against the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, regarding his repeated criticisms and queries directed at the Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland, Sheikh Teliat Yunus Ayilara.

In a statement released on Friday, NDMI, led by Coordinator Professor Abdurazaq Kilani and Secretary Barrister Mojeed Abolore Oloyede, accused elements within Ogbomoso, allegedly supported by the palace, of attempting to undermine Islam's prominence in the region. This critique follows a series of official queries issued by the monarch, including a recent warning that could lead to a review of the Imam’s appointment over purported violations of his oath of office.

The group specifically objected to a query dated June 10, 2024, which demanded that the Chief Imam cut short his pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia due to his failure to obtain prior approval from the Oba. The query instructed the Imam to "immediately return" to Ogbomoso.

NDMI denounced this order as an affront not only to the Chief Imam but also to the broader Muslim community in Oyo State. They urged that the aggressive actions against the Imam cease immediately, asserting that the monarch's interference was provocative and unjust.

The group has also called on the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to intervene and address what they perceive as a potential threat to communal harmony. They alleged that the Soun's actions could be part of a broader scheme to instigate religious conflict in Ogbomoso.

NDMI criticized Oba Ghandi for purportedly disregarding the terms of the oath sworn by the Imam during his installation, which they argue did not include a requirement for royal permission for travel. The group challenged the Oba to provide evidence of any specific breaches of this oath and questioned whether the queries were based on a thorough understanding of the relevant agreements.

The statement concluded by emphasizing that the Oba’s privileged status does not extend to authoritative control over religious practices and institutions. NDMI firmly rejected any attempt to diminish the role of Islam in Ogbomosoland and called for an end to what they view as unwarranted interference by the monarch.