The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has called on Muslim clerics across the South-West and neighbouring states to become actively involved in partisan politics, stressing that political influence is crucial for advancing the interests of the Muslim community and shaping government policies.
According to The Punch, the traditional ruler also expressed support for the newly inaugurated League of Imams and Alfas of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, describing the organisation as a significant step forward for Islamic leadership in the region.
Oba Akanbi made the remarks on Saturday in Ibadan, Oyo State, during the official inauguration of the registered League of Imams and Alfas of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, according to a statement issued by his Press Secretary, Ibrahim Alli.
The statement, obtained by Sunday PUNCH, noted that the event attracted over 1,000 Islamic clerics drawn from Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti, Lagos, Edo and Delta states.
The newly established league was created to enhance the propagation of Islam while encouraging a more inclusive and decentralised leadership framework for Imams and Alfas across the region.
Leaders of the body also rejected claims that its formation could create divisions within the Muslim community, maintaining that its registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission was intended to strengthen its institutional standing and encourage wider grassroots participation.
Speaking at the inauguration, the monarch described the emergence of the league as a fresh chapter in Muslim leadership and urged members to work together for its sustainability.
He said, “There may be challenges at the formation stage. I have strong hope that this registered league will strive and become greater. This is the only League of Imams and Alfas known by law, legally binding and recognised by the government. It is here to stay, fully certified and recognised by the Corporate Affairs Commission.”
Oba Akanbi added that the legal registration of the league should be seen as progress within the Islamic leadership structure rather than a source of division.
“I commend those who ensured Yorubaland, Edo and Delta Muslims under Imams and Alfas are registered to be recognised by law. It is an improvement and one of the testimonies that our children should be greater than us. It is not a division. It is an improvement.
“Aside from consistency, I appeal for your active participation in politics. If you are politically powerful, politicians will call you. You won’t run after them as we experience presently.
“We need you to be in power. You can be elected or appointed. Join a political party today and be active. As Muslims, you need power. The power will not come to you on a platter of gold,” he said.
The monarch further argued that the decentralised structure of the new organisation would provide greater opportunities for local Imams and Alfas to contribute to leadership while promoting inclusiveness throughout Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states.
