The Chief Imam of Ibadan, Sheik Abdul-Ganiyy AbuBakr Agbotomokekere, has led a delegation of prominent Islamic scholars from across Yorubaland on a courtesy visit to the Gbonka Olubadan of Ibadanland and Okanlomo Oodua, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, as part of preparations for the forthcoming Yorubaland Muslim Conference, Ibadan 2026.
The delegation, under the aegis of the Rabitatul-Aimmat Wal Ulamai Bilaadi Yoruba (League of Imams & Alfas in Yorubaland), visited Chief Sanusi to formally invite him to the conference coming up in November this year.
The visit according to reports, also provided an opportunity for the Islamic leaders to discuss issues concerning the development of Islam, unity among Muslim scholars, peaceful coexistence and possible ways of strengthening religious and community institutions in Yorubaland.
In its remarks, the delegation emphasised the importance of bringing together Imams, Alfas, Islamic scholars, community leaders and other stakeholders at the conference to deliberate on issues affecting Muslims and the wider society.
The delegation described Chief Sanusi as a respected community leader, whose contributions to education, youth development, philanthropy and community advancement have continued to attract recognition across Ibadanland and beyond.
The religious leaders expressed their desire to have him associate with the conference and contribute his wealth of experience to the success of the gathering.
The planning committee for the conference is chaired by the Wakeelu L Muslimeen of Oyo State and Treasurer of the League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland, Prof. Kamil Olosho.
Among the distinguished Islamic leaders, who accompanied the Chief Imam of Ibadan on the courtesy visit were Chief Imam of Igboora; Sheik Muhammad Alobalowo, Chief Imam of Ago Amodu; Sheik Abdul Lateef Kilanko, Chief Imam of Ido Central Mosque; Sheik Waliyullahi Sanusi, and Secretary, League of Imams and Alfas, Ibarapa, Sheik Mudathir Yusuf.
Others included Secretary-General, League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland; Sheik Mustapha Dohak, Chief Imam of Ikoyi-Ile; Sheik Abdul Razak Yusuf, Mogaji Basunu; Sheik Nurudeen Basunu, Mogaji Itamaya; Sheik Ismail Olaide Yusuf, and Mogaji Onisiniyin, Sheik Hassan Aminullahi.
Also present were Grand Mufti of Yorubaland; Sheik Abdul Razaq Ishola, Grand Mufti of Oyo State, Sheik Ismail Okumeebo, Sheik Adam Asojuadini, representing the Grand Chief Imam of Oke of Ohoho; Sheikh Mustapha Olohunero, Chief Imam of Iloora; Sheikh Olafenwa Mustapha, among others.
The gathering highlighted the significance of dialogue and collaboration among Islamic scholars and community stakeholders in promoting peace, unity and social development.
The Yorubaland Muslim Conference, Ibadan 2026, is expected to bring together a broad spectrum of Muslim leaders, Imams, Alfas, Islamic scholars and stakeholders from across the Southwest for meaningful discussions on the future of the Muslim community and its role in societal development.
Receiving the delegation, Chief Sanusi expressed appreciation to the Chief Imam of Ibadan and the League of Imams and Alfas for considering him worthy of the visit and invitation.
He acknowledged the important role played by Islamic scholars in promoting moral values, peaceful coexistence, education and responsible citizenship, stressing the need for continued collaboration between religious institutions and community stakeholders.
The Gbonka Olubadan of Ibadanland assured the delegation of his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote unity, peaceful coexistence, education, youth development and the overall wellbeing of the people.
He however congratulated the organisers for bringing together Islamic leaders from different parts of Yorubaland, expressing optimism that the November conference would provide a valuable platform for constructive dialogue and greater unity among Muslims.
