In a significant move merging profound Islamic scholarship with legal erudition, the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has officially turbaned Barrister Alhaji Bilaan Oseni Akinola as the new Chief Imam of Oyo Land.
The installation ceremony, steeped in tradition, took place on Thursday at the Alaafin’s private residence in the Boroboro area of Oyo Town.
In a statement signed by the Palace spokesperson, Bode Durojaiye, it was confirmed that the selection of the legal luminary followed a rigorous screening process to ensure the spiritual stool is occupied by a leader of impeccable character and learning.
A Profile of Law and Faith
The new Chief Imam brings a unique modern perspective to the pulpit. Born on April 15, 1965, into the lineage of Alhaji Shaykh Imam Bilaal Akano Ogunbado of the Imam Ogunbado compound, Akeugberu, he is a bridge between traditional Islamic knowledge and Western legal education.
- Islamic Foundation: He is a 1987 graduate of the prestigious Arabic Institute of Nigeria, Elekuro, Ibadan.
- Legal Expertise: He holds an LL.B from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria (1992).
Before ascending to this spiritual office, Barrister Akinola served a distinguished career in the public and private sectors. He underwent legal tutelage under Barrister Niyi Badmus & Co. in Ibadan and served for years handling legal correspondence for the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) and later the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).
A Vision for Unity and Purity
In his acceptance speech, the new Chief Imam set a clear tone for his leadership: Unity and Doctrinal Purity.
He emphasized that his mission is not to reinvent Islam, but to ensure strict adherence to the Qur’an and the Sunnah.
"Islam is complete and has been complete for centuries," the Chief Imam declared. "My role is not to introduce new doctrines, but to ensure that our members align strictly with the dictates of the Qur’an."
He also issued a strong charge to the political class, leveraging his background in law and public service to remind leaders of their transient power.
"Public office is a trust from Allah, not an opportunity for personal gain. Leaders must prioritize the welfare of the people at all times," he warned, calling for an end to bigotry and ethnic sentiments within the Ummah.
Royal Charge
Closing the ceremony, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I called on the entire Muslim community in Oyo to rally behind the new leadership. The monarch noted that the appointment of a scholar of Barrister Akinola’s caliber signals a new era of enlightenment for the mosque and the town at large.
