Agbotomokekere… Ibadan new chief Imam unveiled

Ibadan Muslim Community on Wednesday announced Sheikh AbdulGaniyy Abubakri (a.k.a Agbotomokekere) as the 18th Chief Imam of Ibadan land. This followed the demise of the former Chief Imam of Ibadan land, Sheikh Baosari Suara Haruna on April 9, 2015 at the age of 93, after leading for 20 years.

Unveiling the new Chief Imam at a news conference in Ibadan, Chief Bayo Oyero, Chairman, Ibadan Muslim Community, said that the appointment of the new Chief Imam followed due process. Oyero said that the entire Ibadan Muslim Community in conjunction with the Imam-in-Council of Ibadan land unanimously approved and ratified the appointment of the new Imam of Ibadan land.

“Agbotomokekere is an inspiring preacher, who up till this time occupied the position of Alfa Agba of Ibadan land. “His appointment as the chief Imam of Ibadan land was well received by all without any grudge,’’ Oyero said.

Oyero said that the new Chief Imam would be turbaned at a grand ceremony on Friday May 15 at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

The 80- year old new Chief Imam is an Arabic and Islamic teacher and was the Alfa Agba of Ibadan land before his appointment on Wednesday. Accepting his nomination, the Chief of Imam of Ibadan land, Sheikh AbdulGaniyy Abubakri, promised to strengthen the existing unity and progress of the Muslims and asked for the support of all and sundry.

He said the announcement of his appointment was unique in the history of Imamship in Ibadan as there was a formal pronouncement and unanimous decision of all the stakeholders.

Dignitaries present at the occasion were Prof. Dawud Noibi, Executive Secretary, Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria, (MUSWEN); Alhaji Lateef Oyelade, the Asiwaju Musulumi of Yorubaland. Others were Alhaji Ishaq Sanni, Chairman, Muslim Community of Oyo State; Alhaja Sekinat Adekola, Iya Adini of Yoruba land; Alhaji Yekini Adeojo, Seriki Musulumi of Yoruba land; Islamic titled holders, scholars and Muslim groups.