Oyo Grand Chief Imam to hold marathon prayers over rising insecurity on May 26

Office of the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land has announced plans to organise a special Marathon Prayer Programme aimed at seeking divine intervention over the growing insecurity confronting Nigeria, while also praying for peace, unity and sustainable development across Oyoland and the country at large.

In a statement issued on behalf of the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, the revered Islamic leader expressed deep concern over the persistent security challenges affecting many parts of the country, particularly communities in Oyo State.

He noted that the increasing incidents of kidnapping, violence, fear and social unrest require not only practical efforts by authorities and stakeholders, but also sincere spiritual intervention through prayers and supplications.

According to the statement, the special prayer programme will hold on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, which coincides with the blessed Day of Arafah, at the Oyo Central Mosque from 12 noon until Maghrib prayer time.

The event is expected to feature Adhkaar, Nawaafil, recitation of the Holy Qur’an and special supplications dedicated to peace, security and progress in Oyoland, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.

The Grand Chief Imam explained that the gathering would specifically focus on seeking Allah’s mercy, protection and divine intervention against the growing wave of insecurity and instability affecting communities across the nation.

Special prayers, according to the statement, will also be offered for the well-being, wisdom, sound health and divine guidance of His Imperial Majesty, Abdul Hakeem Abimbola Owoade I, as well as for greater prosperity, infrastructural development and human capacity advancement in Oyoland.

The prayer session will further include supplications for the actualisation of Oyo Town’s aspiration to become the capital of the proposed Oyo State in the future political arrangement.

The Grand Chief Imam called on traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, clerics, community leaders, youth groups and all Nigerians to unite in prayers and collective efforts towards restoring peace, harmony and development in the country.

He also encouraged Muslims to observe fasting on the Day of Arafah, describing it as one of the most spiritually rewarding days in Islam and an important opportunity for seeking Allah’s forgiveness, mercy and blessings.

The statement added that adequate arrangements would be made to ensure convenience and comfort for participants expected at the marathon prayer session.

The Grand Chief Imam concluded by praying for lasting peace, stability and prosperity across Oyoland and Nigeria.