Grand Chief Imam of Oyo congratulates new Ilorin Chief Imam, calls for greater collaboration against insecurity

Michael Olumide

The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has congratulated Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki Imam Fulani on his appointment as the new Chief Imam of Ilorin Emirate, describing the development as a significant milestone for the Muslim community in Nigeria.

In a press statement issued, the respected Islamic leader commended the appointment made by the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, saying it reflected the confidence reposed in Sheikh Dasuki’s scholarship, integrity and commitment to the service of Islam.

The statement noted that the emergence of the new Chief Imam had been widely welcomed by Muslims in Ilorin Emirate, Kwara State, and across Nigeria, describing Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki Imam Fulani as a distinguished Islamic scholar with an impressive record in Islamic education, Da’wah and community service.

According to the Grand Chief Imam, the appointment is a recognition of years of dedication to the propagation of authentic Islamic teachings and service to humanity. He prayed that Almighty Allah grant the new Chief Imam wisdom, sound health, sincerity and divine guidance to discharge the enormous responsibilities of his office successfully.

The statement further observed that Nigeria is currently confronted with growing security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, violent extremism and other criminal activities, stressing that religious leaders must play more active roles in promoting peace and social stability.

The Grand Chief Imam emphasized that Imams, Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, community leaders and government institutions should strengthen collaboration in addressing insecurity and other social problems affecting the country.

He maintained that mosques and other religious institutions must continue to serve as centres for moral reorientation, peaceful coexistence and the promotion of genuine Islamic teachings that reject violence, hatred and extremism in all forms.

The Islamic leader also stressed that sustained cooperation among religious authorities would help foster national unity, strengthen inter-community harmony and support lawful efforts aimed at restoring peace and security across the country.

He expressed the readiness of the Office of the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land to work closely with Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki, Imam Fulani and other respected Islamic leaders across Nigeria in advancing the cause of Islam, promoting peaceful coexistence and contributing to the nation’s development.

The statement concluded with renewed congratulations to the new Chief Imam of Ilorin, accompanied by prayers for a successful, impactful and blessed tenure marked by wisdom, peace and lasting contributions to the growth of Islam and the well-being of Nigerians.