The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has dismissed claims that a new Chief Imam has been appointed for Oyo town, stressing that the decision rests solely with the palace.
In a statement issued on Monday in Ibadan by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the monarch described the circulating reports as false and misleading.
“The attention of the Alaafin’s Palace has been drawn to wild speculations that a new Chief Imam has been appointed for Oyo,” the statement read. “The people of Oyo and the general public are advised to disregard such unfounded and mischievous information, as no candidate has been selected for the foremost Islamic office in the town.”
The palace explained that the selection process is still in progress and consultations are ongoing. The Alaafin urged residents to remain calm and patient, assuring that the rightful candidate will be announced at the appropriate time.
“It should be noted that only His Imperial Majesty has the exclusive authority to appoint a new Chief Imam for Oyo,” the statement added.