Amid joy and celebration, the Muslim community of Owo, alongside Islamic scholars and clerics from across the country, on Sunday witnessed the official installation of Sheikh Yunus Olarenwaju Anola Al-Adaby as the Grand Chief Imam of Owo Kingdom, in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo state.
Until his elevation, Sheikh Anola served as the Chief Imam of the Ondo State Government House Central Mosque, Akure, a position he held with distinction from 2021.
Speaking at the turbaning ceremony, Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, described the new Grand Chief Imam as a shepherd who had long prepared himself, through learning, character, and service for the exalted office.
Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor said Almighty Allah had shown great kindness to the people of Owo by raising another selfless leader to succeed the departed Grand Chief Imam, Sheikh Ahmad Aladesawe, whom he described as “a father to all.”
The governor expressed confidence in the capacity of the new Grand Chief Imam to unite the people of Owo and work collaboratively with other stakeholders for the continued peace, prosperity, and development of the kingdom.
“Sheikh Anola ascends this exalted office with an enviable record as a profound Islamic scholar, eloquent preacher, and devoted servant of Islam.
“For many years, he served with distinction as the Chief Imam of the Government House Mosque, where he led prayers, delivered inspiring sermons, and provided spiritual guidance to worshippers from diverse backgrounds. He is, indeed, a perfect fit.
“His deep knowledge of the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah, combined with his calm disposition and inclusive approach to Islamic teachings, has touched many lives and earned him widespread respect across Owo land and beyond.
“Guided by the principle of collective decision-making and total submission to the will of Allah, the Muslim community of Owo has chosen a leader whose piety, wisdom, and inclusiveness reflect the finest ideals of Islamic scholarship,” the governor noted.
He congratulated the Olowo of Owo and the entire Muslim community on the successful installation of the new Grand Chief Imam, urging them to continue to support him in sustaining peace and driving development in Owo.
In his remarks, the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin described Sheikh Anola as a fearless and compassionate leader who is deeply committed to the progress of Owo and the wellbeing of its people.
Delivering the sermon at the ceremony, the National Missioner of Ansaru Islam Worldwide, Sheikh Mumeen Ayara, highlighted the sacred responsibilities of a Grand Chief Imam and the significance of the turbaning ceremony.
He charged Sheikh Anola to continue to act as a father to all under his spiritual leadership, irrespective of their socio-economic status.
In his acceptance speech, Sheikh Anola expressed profound gratitude to all stakeholders for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to use his office to promote religious harmony, unity, and development in Owo Kingdom.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries and top government officials, including the President-General, League of Imams and Alfas (South-West, Edo and Delta States), Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere; the Grand Mufti of Ondo State, Sheikh Surajudeen Batuta; representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN); the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro; and the Member representing Owo Constituency I in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. West Ogunmolasuyi, among others.
