The League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta States installed the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Dr. Sikiru Adetona, as the Amir ul Mulukil Muslimin Fi Bilad on Tuesday.
The Chief Imam of Egba Agura, Professor Kamaldeen Balogun, officiated the ceremony held at the Awujale’s palace in Ijebu Ode, where he advocated for the installation and burial of traditional rulers according to their religious beliefs, as successfully implemented in Ogun State, to be replicated in other Southwest states.
He urged the 90-year-old monarch to use his new position to promote the development of Islam and the well-being and empowerment of Muslims across the country.
Additionally, he appealed to the monarch to establish either a world-class library or a university for Muslims as a way of immortalizing his legacy.
The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, described Oba Adetona as a courageous and compassionate leader and encouraged him to use his vast experience to foster unity, peace, and religious tolerance across the country.
“Today’s ceremony is a celebration of faith, values, and courageous leadership as exemplified by the Awujale over the years.
“Our new Amir embodies compassion, wisdom, and integrity, which are the hallmarks of great leaders, and Kabiyesi rightly deserves this new leadership role.
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“Your selection for this leadership position as Amir ul Mulukil Muslimin symbolizes inclusivity, peace, and justice. You are a bridge between tradition and modernity, a man of faith, and you exemplify religious tolerance,” he added.
The governor reaffirmed the government’s readiness to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure religious harmony across the country.
During the ceremony, which was attended by prominent figures from the Islamic faith and other notable Nigerians, Governor Abiodun announced that the federal government had approved the reconstruction of the Sagamu-Ijebu Ode expressway.
He said, “The flagging off of the reconstruction of this critical road, which serves 17 states in the southern region, will take place today (Tuesday). I will be heading from here to meet the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, who will be joining us for the flag-off.”
