Oyo Muslim Ummah rejects divisive attempts, stands with Sultan of Sokoto

Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh (Barrister) Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has reaffirmed the steadfast commitment of Muslims in Oyo to follow the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto on all Islamic-related matters.

Sheikh Akeugberu made the declaration amid concerns over attempts by divisive elements, allegedly for political reasons, to undermine the unity of the Nigerian Muslim Ummah.

He emphasized that the Muslim community in Oyo Land remains resolute in its support for the Sultan’s guidance.

“The Ummah in Oyo Land will, by the will of Allah, follow the leadership of the Sultan in all Islamic-related matters,” Sheikh Akeugberu said.

He added that this adherence is firmly rooted in Islamic teachings and is consistent with the Sunnah, as outlined in the Glorious Qur’an and the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

In a separate statement issued from his office, Sheikh Akeugberu, who is also a legal practitioner and former Secretary-General of the Amalgamated Muslim Rights Concern (AMURIC), clarified that the commencement of Ramadan fasting in Oyo Land will not be declared independently.

According to the statement, Muslims in Oyo Land will await the official announcement from the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, regarding the sighting of the new moon before starting the Ramadan fast.

“The general public is hereby notified to await the official announcement from His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, regarding the commencement of the Ramadan fasting,” the statement read.

Sheikh Akeugberu’s pronouncement underscores the unity of the Muslim community in Oyo Land and their continued respect for traditional Islamic leadership, even in the face of divisive attempts.

The Grand Chief Imam’s message comes at a time when religious cohesion and adherence to Islamic guidance are being increasingly highlighted as central to maintaining harmony within the Nigerian Muslim Ummah.