Confusion As Alaafin Speaks On Rumoured Appointment Of New Oyo Chief Imam

Confusion has trailed reports making the rounds in Oyo town that a new Chief Imam has been appointed, forcing the palace of the Alaafin to issue a strong rebuttal.

In a statement signed by the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin Akeem Owoade described the claim as false, baseless and capable of misleading the public.

“The attention of the Alaafin’s Palace has been drawn to wild speculations milling round that a new Chief Imam has been appointed for Oyo. The good people of Oyo and members of the public are advised to disregard such unfounded, baseless and wicked information, as no candidate has been chosen for the number one Islamic seat in Oyo town,” the statement read.

Durojaiye explained that the selection process for a new Chief Imam was still ongoing, stressing that wide consultations were being held to ensure the rightful choice. He added that His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, the Alaafin and Paramount Ruler of Oyo Kingdom, had urged the people to remain calm and peaceful while the process runs its course.

“The selection of a new Chief Imam of Oyo is undergoing due process and wider consultations. His Imperial Majesty has urged the people to remain calm and peaceful, as the rightful choice will be made in due course,” he added.

The palace also reaffirmed that only the Alaafin reserves the exclusive authority to appoint the Chief Imam, warning mischief makers to desist from spreading falsehood that could incite unnecessary tension in the town.