By Sadiq Abdulfatah

The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) has mourned the passing of Sheikh Ahmad Oladoke Aladesawe, the Chief Imam of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State League of Imams and Alfas.

In a statement issued yesterday, signed by its President, Rasaki Oladejo, FCS, and Executive Secretary, Prof Muslih Tayo Yahya, MUSWEN, described Sheikh Aladesawe’s death at the age of 91, on the night of Monday, September 15, 2025, as a profound loss to the Muslim community, the people of Owo Kingdom, and the entire South West region.

“Sheikh Aladesawe was more than a religious leader; he was a paragon of Islamic scholarship and devotion, a pillar of community service, and a unifying force for peace and progress among Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

“As Chairman of the Ondo State League of Imams and Alfas, he played a pivotal role in fostering dialogue, promoting religious harmony, and advancing the welfare of the ummah in Ondo State and beyond.

“His dedication to education, da’wah (Islamic propagation), and social justice inspired countless individuals and organisations, including MUSWEN, where his wise counsel was invaluable in our collective efforts to uplift the Muslim community of the entire South West Nigeria,” the statement read.

MUSWEN extended condolences to the immediate family of the late Sheikh, Jamiu Ekungba, the Baba Adinni of Owo Kingdom, the Owo Muslim Community, the Ondo State League of Imams and Alfas, the Olowo of Owo Kingdom, the Governor of Ondo State, and all who were touched by his exemplary life.

“We pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, grants him Al-Jannah Firdaus (the highest paradise), and grants his family, loved ones, and the entire community the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. May Allah’s infinite mercy envelop us all during this time of grief,” MUSWEN added.

The organisation further urged Muslims to honour his memory by embracing the values he lived for.

“In this moment of mourning, let us reflect on the legacy of Sheikh Aladesawe a nd rededicate ourselves to the values he championed: faith, unity, and service to humanity.

“MUSWEN calls on all Muslims to increase their acts of worship, including prayers for the deceased, as we navigate this period of bereavement.”

Source: The Guardian

Tell us about MUSWEN and what the organisation stands for.

The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria, MUSWEN, comprises Muslim communities and Muslim councils in the six states of the South West geopolitical zone: Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo. ‘Ummah’ is an Arabic word for community. In addition to the states’ Muslim councils and communities, all Muslim organisations domiciled in the South West are also co-owners. They are corporate members of MUSWEN.

I’m talking about the likes of Ansar-Ud-Deen, NASFAT, Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO), Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), Al-Fatih-ul-Quareeb, Anwar-ul-Islam and over a hundred other organisations. MUSWEN is the umbrella body for all these organisations, communities and Muslims in general in the South West. It takes care of the interests of Islam and Muslims in the geopolitical zone.

Our current president is Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo. He also serves as the Deputy President General (South) of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs. The organisation’s activities revolve around what benefits humanity; whatever it does for Muslims eventually cascades to others.

What kinds of social interventions has the organisation carried out?

When we started in 2008, the first thing we launched was scholarships for female clinical medical students. We discovered a dearth of Muslim female doctors to take care of our teeming women, so we needed to encourage our young women.

We owe great gratitude to His Eminence, Dr Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs. He was the guest of honour at MUSWEN’s inauguration in 2008. There and then, he promised to sponsor three female clinical medical students every year, and he has kept that promise. MUSWEN leaders complemented his effort by sponsoring three additional students, making six all together, one from each of the six South West states.

After that, we introduced bursary awards. But we want to go further; we want our impact to be more deeply felt. For example, at the next General Assembly, which will be hosted by the chairman of our Board of Trustees, Dr Wale Babalakin, SAN, at the Bola Babalakin Conference Hall in Gbongan, Osun State, we intend to seek financial assistance from good-hearted Nigerian Muslims. The guest of honour at the event will be His Eminence, Dr Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.

Our intention is to seek support for our 2026 N2 billion project. First, we want to empower Muslims. We plan to spend N50 million per state for economic empowerment; N300 million across the six states. This will benefit all the Muslim communities, councils and organisations I mentioned earlier. And the impact won’t stop with the direct beneficiaries; it will extend to their spouses, children and extended families. Muslims make up over 60 per cent of the population in the South West. By doing this, we are helping the national economy.

Second, we want to lay more emphasis on zakat. Almighty Allah has prescribed zakat as a means of redistributing wealth between the haves and the have-nots. We are reinvigorating our zakat committee to develop more robust policies that will help Nigerians, especially in the South West, live better lives. Some people have N10 million; others don’t even have N5,000. Allah has guided us on how to address such disparities.

MUSWEN also needs a better image. The organisation does not own a single vehicle. If we want to visit a governor, for instance, we have to hire vehicles. This does not confer the honour due to us. So, this year, insha Allah, we intend to purchase a brand-new Hiace bus and a Toyota Granvia. The president and other leaders will travel in the Granvia; others will be in the bus. We also plan to purchase a brand-new Prado for our Executive Secretary. It does not reflect well on an apex Muslim organisation in the South West if our Executive Secretary arrives at events in a dilapidated vehicle. These are part of what we intend to present to the public.

In education, apart from scholarships and bursaries, we aim to train our children in each state in Artificial Intelligence, robotics, data informatics and information science, skills that make them marketable globally. We want to raise quality Muslim children who can compete anywhere in the world. Our education committee is working seriously on this.

In health, we have plans to establish healthcare facilities in each of the six states, equipped with world-class diagnostic and state-of-the-art equipment that can attract people from far and near. These facilities will serve the dual purpose of improving public health and generating revenue for MUSWEN, so we don’t always have to seek donations.

We have many standing committees developing great ideas. If we are able to achieve all of this, we will grow; Islam will grow; Muslims will grow; and humanity will benefit. This is our way of supporting the government’s economic development efforts.

Additionally, on Sunday, insha Allah, we will commission a shopping mall at Agbeni in Ibadan, donated by one of our BoT members, Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali, SAN. It is named after his mother, Alhaja Aishat Ali. It will generate modest revenue.

We also have a parcel of land at Agodi GRA, allocated to us by the administration of the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi. We intend to build our secretariat there and move from our Iwo Road office, which we’ll convert into a commercial complex for income generation. Dr Abdur-Rauf Wale Babalakin donated a bungalow to us in Federal Housing Authority, Lugbe, Abuja. We plan to develop that property as well.

We are appealing to well-meaning Nigerian Muslims to support us because we truly want to make a difference this time. MUSWEN is known, but not as well as it should be. Our activities will increase awareness. Once we take these steps, we can attract international funding and more people will benefit.

The General Assembly is scheduled, insha Allah, for Sunday, 16th November 2025, at Bola Babalakin Conference Hall, Gbongan. The programme will run from 10am to 2pm, insha Allah. We appeal to the public to see MUSWEN as their collective project, one that must grow. We’re aiming to raise N2 billion at the event, and with public support, we can exceed that goal. People are willing to trade with Allah. They know that whatever they spend in His cause will be repaid abundantly, both here and in the Hereafter.

Apart from the fundraiser, what other aspects of the General Assembly should participants look forward to?

The General Assembly is essentially a delegates’ conference. We allocate delegates to each state and organisation. It’s held in two parts: the general conference (opening session) and the business session.

Previously, we began with a formal opening at 11 am, followed by the business session. However, the formal opening often ran long, leaving little time for critical business. Yet the formal opening is important; it’s when dignitaries, including His Eminence, governors and philanthropists, are present. It’s also the primary fundraising window.

So, this year, we’re restructuring. The programme will start at 10am with the business session. Let’s first attend to MUSWEN’s internal matters: committee reports, the secretariat’s report, the president’s address and ratifications. Once that’s done, we can welcome our guests. The plan is for the business session to run from 10am to 12pm, followed by the formal opening. We believe this new format will help us achieve more, insha Allah.

The General Assembly is MUSWEN’s highest organ. It ratifies all decisions approved or recommended by subordinate bodies such as the Central Working Committee and General Purpose Committee.

Is there a strategy behind choosing Gbongan, Osun State, as the venue this year?

Yes. The General Assembly is an annual event. For years, it was always held in Ibadan. Three years ago, we decided to allow other states to host. Lagos was the first. Two years ago, it hosted. Last year, MUSWEN headquarters in Ibadan hosted. This year, Osun is hosting.

The idea is: if a state hosts in a given year, MUSWEN headquarters will host the following year and then another state the year after that. After this year’s event, we will decide which state will host next. Each host state is given two years to plan. When MUSWEN is the host, the event is in Ibadan. When Oyo State hosts, it could be in Oyo town or Ogbomoso.

As the chairman of the central planning committee, how do you combine your day-to-day activities with the committee’s work?

They say if you have a very important job, give it to a busy person. He already knows how to multitask. It’s an ad hoc committee for the General Assembly. I am also the chairman of a standing committee in MUSWEN, namely the Property Development Committee. So, it’s people who are willing to work that end up working. It’s all about time management, and with the support of Almighty Allah, we’ll succeed.

What message do you have for the participants ahead of the General Assembly?

There are some people who are blessed in this country and who are willing to support the cause of Allah. They know themselves. We may not be able to identify them; money does not make noise. These people are willing to trade with God.

My first message is that the headquarters of MUSWEN is at Number 46, Iwo Road, Ibadan. It is located beside First Bank. After Abdul-Azeez Arisekola Mosque, there is First Bank, and the next building is MUSWEN. People should come to us willingly, identify with us and let us know that they want to support the cause of Islam.

I also want to appeal to those we shall be reaching out to: they should not look at us as just MUSWEN; they should see us as servants of Allah who have come to encourage them to support His cause. And we all know that when you trade with Allah, He blesses you many times over.

They should even go a step further by mobilising others who can help us, so that every household will know that MUSWEN exists. People should please support us; support Islam, support the work of Allah.

This was contained in a press statement jointly signed by Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, President and  Professor Muslih Tayo Yahya Executive Secretary/CEO which reads:

MUSWEN greets  Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello on 40th Anniversary as Chief Imam of Ado-Ekiti

The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) extends heartfelt congratulations to Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello, the President of the League of Imams and Alfas in Yoruband
and the revered Chief Imam of Ado-Ekiti, on the occasion of his 40th anniversary as the Chief Imam of Ado-Ekiti.

This remarkable milestone is a testament to Sheikh Bello’s unwavering dedication, exemplary leadership, and profound commitment to the propagation of Islam and the upliftment of the Muslim community in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, and beyond.

His four decades of service as Chief Imam of Ado-Ekiti  reflect a legacy of spiritual guidance, unity, and intellectual contributions to the growth of Islam in South West Nigeria.

Under Sheikh Bello’s leadership, the Muslim community in Ado-Ekiti, in particular and Ekiti State, in general, have witnessed significant advancements in religious education, interfaith harmony, and community development.

His role as the President of the League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland has further strengthened the collective voice of Islamic leadership in the region, fostering unity, peace, and progress among Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

MUSWEN celebrates Sheikh Bello’s enduring contributions to the promotion of Islamic values, his tireless efforts in nurturing the younger generation, and his exemplary leadership in addressing contemporary challenges facing the Ummah.

His wisdom, humility, and devotion continue to inspire countless individuals and communities.

We pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) grants Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello continued good health, strength, and divine wisdom to lead the Ummah for many more years.

May his legacy of service and righteousness endure, and may Allah (SWT) reward him abundantly in this world and the Hereafter.

Once again, congratulations to  Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello, on this historic milestone.

Signed:

Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo
President

Professor Muslih Tayo Yahya Executive Secretary/CEO

Source: The Shield Online.

Imam Jimoh’s emergence as the new leader of The Companion was announced during its three-day national conference, which was concluded last Saturday in Ilorin, Kwara State.

MUSWEN, in a message signed by its President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, and  Executive Secretary, Professor Muslih Tayo Yahya, said: “Imam Nojeem Jimoh, the Chief Imam of the Lighthouse Muslim Community in Lekki and a respected member of the Daw’ah Committee of the Lekki Central Mosque (LEMU), brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role.

“Having previously served as the National Naibul-Amir, his dedication to the advancement of Islamic values and community development is well-documented.

“A retired oil and gas executive, Imam Jimoh’s professional expertise and commitment to faith-based leadership make him an exemplary choice to steer The Companion for the next two years.

“MUSWEN commends The Companion for its transparent process in electing Imam Jimoh and expresses confidence in his ability to lead the organisation to greater heights. His track record of service, both within the Muslim community and in the professional sphere, reflects the qualities of integrity, wisdom and compassion needed to foster unity and progress.

“We pray that Almighty Allah grants Imam Nojeem Jimoh the strength, guidance and wisdom to discharge his duties effectively and to uphold the noble objectives of The Companion.

“Once again, congratulations to Imam Nojeem Jimoh. May his tenure be marked by success, unity and impactful initiatives that promote the values of Islam and the welfare of the Ummah.”

Source: Nigerian Tribune.

Imam Jimoh’s emergence as the new leader of The Companion was announced during its three-day National Conference, which was concluded on Saturday in Ilorin, Kwara State.

MUSWEN, in a message jointly signed by its President Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo and Executive Secretary Prof Muslih Tayo Yahya, said: “Imam Jimoh, the Chief Imam of the Lighthouse Muslim Community in Lekki and a respected member of the Daw’ah Committee of the Lekki Central Mosque (LEMU), brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role.

“ Having previously served as the National Naibul-Amir, his dedication to the advancement of Islamic values and community development is well-documented. A retired oil and gas executive and former Chief Operating Officer of Taurus Oil & Gas Ltd, Imam Jimoh’s professional expertise and commitment to faith-based leadership make him an exemplary choice to steer The Companion for the next two years.

“MUSWEN commends The Companion for its transparent process in electing Imam Jimoh and expresses confidence in his ability to lead the organization to greater heights. His track record of service, both within the Muslim community and in the professional sphere, reflects the qualities of integrity, wisdom, and compassion needed to foster unity and progress.

“We pray that Almighty Allah grants Imam Jimoh the strength, guidance, and wisdom to discharge his duties effectively and to uphold the noble objectives of The Companion.

“ Once again, congratulations to Imam Jimoh. May his tenure be marked by success, unity, and impactful initiatives that promote the values of Islam and the welfare of the Ummah.”

Source: The Nation.

This demand was made on Saturday, July 19, 2025, during the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the Constitution, South West Centre A Public Hearing, held in Lagos.

MUSWEN submitted a comprehensive memorandum proposing several amendments, echoing similar demands made earlier at the Senate Public Hearing on constitutional review in Lagos.

According to MUSWEN, “under Sections 262 (1 & 2) and 277 (1 & 2), the jurisdiction of the Sharia Court of Appeal is currently limited to Islamic personal law.

This restriction represents a serious form of discrimination and a violation of the principle of equal access to justice for three main reasons.”

The group contended that, “The Sharia Court of Appeal is not a court of first instance; it only hears appeals. Yet, its jurisdiction is narrower than the lower courts from which appeals originate. This has resulted in Islamic civil matters being tried on appeal by judges of the High Court, Court of Appeal, or Supreme Court—many of whom may not be Muslims or may lack adequate understanding of Islamic law.”

MUSWEN highlighted the imbalance in comparison to the Customary Court of Appeal, which is not limited to personal law under Sections 267 and 282(1). “This imbalance is unjustifiable and denies Muslim litigants equal rights within the legal framework,” it stated.

The group further criticized the current system in which “Islamic civil matters (outside personal law) are often decided by British-style courts,” describing it as inappropriate given the distinct foundations and philosophies of Islamic and Western legal systems.

Citing the case of Abdulsalam v. Salawu (2002) 13 NWLR (Pt. 705) 505, MUSWEN pointed out how the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court ruled that the Sharia Court of Appeal lacked jurisdiction in the appointment of a Chief Imam, which it said underscores the need for constitutional reform.

MUSWEN proposed that the word “personal” be removed from Sections 262(1 & 2) and 277(1 & 2) to broaden the jurisdiction of the Sharia Court of Appeal.

It also recommended amending Section 272(1) to strip the High Court of jurisdiction over Islamic civil matters, suggesting it be revised to read:
“Subject to the provisions of Sections 251, 262, and 277, and other relevant provisions of this Constitution…”

On broader constitutional matters, MUSWEN supported the devolution of powers by amending the Exclusive Legislative List and moving more items like natural resources, taxation, and local infrastructure to the Concurrent List. It also recommended recognition of the six geopolitical zones as federating units with authority to operate regional constitutions, similar to the 1963 arrangement.

Regarding fiscal federalism, MUSWEN advocated a return to the revenue-sharing formula in Section 140 of the 1963 Constitution:

50% of royalties and rents to the producing region

30% to the distributable pool

20% to the federal government

States and regions, it argued, should manage their resources and remit agreed royalties to the federal government.

MUSWEN also called for full local government autonomy, recommending amendments to Section 7 to ensure direct funding from the Consolidated Revenue Account and to define the powers of LGAs clearly. It further suggested that states should hand off control of primary education to LGAs.

In terms of legislative structure, the group proposed a bicameral system with reduced membership. It recommended making the Senate an advisory body composed of non-political stakeholders, and having the House of Representatives consist of part-time members with 12 representatives per geopolitical zone.

On electoral reforms, MUSWEN supported House Bill 1589, which involves the National Judicial Council in appointing the INEC Chairman. It proposed that regional electoral commissions conduct local government elections simultaneously with general elections, supported House Bill 1154 to ensure election petitions are resolved before swearing in elected officials, and advocated extending the tenure of LG officials to four years.

Additionally, MUSWEN called for constitutional protection of Muslim women’s rights to wear the hijab, suggesting an expansion or clarification of Section 42 to explicitly prohibit discrimination based on religious attire in schools and workplaces.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Committee, Rt. Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim Ayokunle, who is also the House Deputy Chief Whip, explained the constitutional review procedure.

He noted that after the public hearings and first reading of bills, a two-thirds majority of the Chamber must agree on recommendations, followed by harmonization by the Conference Committee and input from State Houses of Assembly before final passage into law.

Hon. Ayokunle assured that all memoranda would be considered, pledging transparency in the process.

Centre A of the Public Hearing comprises Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo States. Present at the session were Deputy Committee Chairman Hon. Jide Benson, Hon. Kafilah Ogbara, Hon. Seni Adio, former Ogun State Governor Senator Gbenga Daniel, former Lagos Deputy Governor Prince Biodun Ogunleye, former Ogun Deputy Governor Gbenga Kaka, ex-Minister of Works Adeseye Ogunlewe, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders.

Various trade unions, NGOs, youth groups, women’s organisations, and religious bodies submitted memoranda during the session.

Source: AfriReporters.

To this end, it has proposed an amendment to the country’s Constitution to expand the powers, administration, composition, and jurisdiction of the Sharia Court of Appeal.

The group made its position known at the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the Constitution, South West, Centre A Public Hearing, on Saturday, in Lagos.

It made same demand in a  memo presented to the Senate Public Hearing on the Review of the Constitution, South West Zone, held earlier, also in Lagos.

MUSWEN, while presenting its memorandum at the House of Representatives  hearing, reiterated that Muslims in Nigeria have long been denied full enjoyment of their religious rights, despite persistent calls for recognition and implementation since the colonial era.

It cited that “under Sections 262 (1 & 2) and 277 (1 & 2), the jurisdiction of the Sharia Court of Appeal is currently limited to Islamic personal law. This restriction represents a serious form of discrimination and a violation of the principle of equal access to justice for three main reasons”.

MUSWEN contended that “The Sharia Court of Appeal is not a court of first instance; it only hears appeals. Yet, its jurisdiction is narrower than the lower courts from which appeals originate. This has resulted in Islamic civil matters being tried on appeal by judges of the High Court, Court of Appeal, or Supreme Court—many of whom may not be Muslims or may lack adequate understanding of Islamic law.

It added: “Unlike the Sharia Court of Appeal, the jurisdiction of the Customary Court of Appeal under Sections 267 and 282(1) is not limited to personal law. This imbalance is unjustifiable and denies Muslim litigants equal rights within the legal framework.

“Islamic civil matters (outside personal law) are often decided by British-style courts. This is problematic given the different legal foundations, procedures, and philosophies of the Sharia and British-styled courts. In many cases, non-Muslim judges rule on purely Islamic matters, which is both inappropriate and inequitable. A classic example is Abdulsalam v. Salawu (2002) 13 NWLR (Pt. 705) 505, where the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court ruled that the Sharia Court of Appeal lacked jurisdiction in the matter of appointing a Chief Imam—demonstrating the consequences of the constitutional limitation”.

Against this background, MUSWEN proposed that the word “personal” be expunged from Sections 262(1 & 2) and 277(1 & 2) to allow broader jurisdiction for the Sharia Court of Appeal.”

MUSWEN’ proposed further: “Amend Section 272(1) of the Constitution to strip the High Court of jurisdiction over Islamic civil matters.

“The new wording should read: Subject to the provisions of Sections 251, 262, and 277, and other relevant provisions of this Constitution…”

On devolution of powers, MUSWEN supported the review of the Exclusive Legislative List and the transfer of more items, such as natural resources, local infrastructure, taxation to the Concurrent Legislative List.

In the same vein, it recommended recognition of the six geopolitical zones as federating units, with powers to operate regional constitutions as in the 1963 Constitution, proposing that section 2(2) should be amended to reflect the six zones as political-administrative regions.

Speaking on Fiscal Federalism and Resource Control, MUSWEN supported the principle of derivation and recommended reverting to the revenue-sharing formula of Section 140 of the 1963 Constitution, which provides 50 percent of royalty and mining rents to the producing region; – 30 percent to the distributable pool account; – 20 percent to the federal government.

It advocated that States/Regions should be permitted to explore and manage their resources, remitting agreed royalties to the federal government.

MUSWEN also recommended that Local Governments should be given autonomy as an independent tier of government, while more powers be devolved from the concurrent and/ or residual Legislative list to the local government. 

In doing this, it called for amendment to section 7 to reflect that LGAs should be funded directly from the consolidated revenue account and their powers be clearly spelt out, advocating that the states should “hand off primacy education institutions”.

MUSWEN also pushed for a bicameral legislature with reduced membership, recommending that the Senate should be advisory and composed of non-political stakeholders.

Similarly, it proposed that the House of Representatives should have part-time members with 12 members per zone, calling for amendment to Section 48 to reflect the advocated structural changes.

On Electoral Reforms, MUSWEN supported the proposal in HB, 1589 for involving the National Judicial Council in the appointment of INEC Chair to ensure independence.

It recommended regional electoral commissions to conduct LG elections concurrently with general elections. “Support HB. 1154 mandating resolution of election petitions before swearing-in of elected officials. – Proposed tenure of LG officials to be extended to 4 years”.

Additionally, the organization strongly recommended constitutional protection of Muslim women’s rights to wear the Hijab, citing that section 42 should be expanded or clarified to prohibit any form of discrimination, in schools, workplaces based on religious dressing.

The Chairman of the Committee, Rt. Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim Ayokunle, in his welcome address announced that the exercise was a procedure, saying that it would be followed up with the next legislative processes.

Ayokunle, who doubles as the House Deputy Chief Whip, pointed out that apart from the recommended bills passing through first reading; after, two third of the Chamber must consent to all recommendations, after which the Conference Committee of the National Assembly will compare notes – to harmonize areas of differences, after which the amended bills will be passed down to States House of Assembly for their inputs, before being passed into Law.

Hon. Adekunle pledged that all memorandum submitted would be looked into, pledging transparency in the exercise.

Centre A of the Public Hearing comprises: Lagos, Ogun and Oyo States.

The session was attended by the Committee’s Deputy Chairman, Hon. Jide Benson, Kafilah Ogbara, Seni Adio, former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Gbenga Daniel, former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Prince Biodun Ogunleye, his Ogun State counterpart, Gbenga Kaka, former Minister of Works, Adeseye Ogunlewe, traditional rulers, among other dignitaries.

Memoranda were submitted by trade unions, NGOs, women’s groups, youth bodies, religious bodies, among others.

Source: City Voice News.

In statements signed by the President of the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, and its Executive Secretary, Professor Muslih Tayo Yahya, the organisation described the departed leaders as devout Muslims and principled statesmen. 

MUSWEN noted that Buhari’s administration was defined by integrity, simplicity and an unwavering commitment to unity, anti-corruption and national development.

It called on President Bola Tinubu to immortalise Buhari by naming significant national infrastructure in his honour and urged Nigerians to embrace the late leader’s values of unity, integrity and selfless service.

The group also honoured the late Oba Adetona, describing him as a reformist monarch who successfully blended Yoruba tradition with Islamic values. 

As President of the Ogun State Muslim Council and leader of Muslim Obas in Yorubaland, Oba Adetona was lauded for advocating religious rights for traditional rulers, efforts that culminated in the landmark Obas and Chiefs Laws of Ogun State (2021), affirming burial rites in accordance with personal faith.

MUSWEN extended condolences to the families of both departed leaders and prayed for their admittance into Jannatul Firdaus, urging the nation to continue praying for peace and progress.

Similarly, the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO) expressed deep sorrow over the deaths, describing them as a national tragedy that has “sent shockwaves across the nation.”

In a statement by its National President, Malam Sani Suleiman Maigoro, and National Secretary, Alhaji Moshood Akintola, NACOMYO praised Buhari as a stalwart of Nigerian politics whose devotion to public service shaped the country’s post-colonial trajectory. 

The organisation described his legacy as a guiding light for future generations.

Oba Adetona was celebrated by NACOMYO as a monarch of exceptional wisdom and dignity, whose 65-year reign brought significant development to Ijebu-Ode and beyond, earning widespread admiration across and outside Ogun State.

Also mourning the passing of the revered monarch, the Ogun State Muslim Council (OMC) described Oba Adetona, its President-General, as a unifying figure known for wisdom, integrity and unwavering dedication to the welfare of his people.

In a statement signed by OMC Secretary-General, Alhaji Kamal’deen Akintunde, the council recalled the monarch’s commitment to interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence.

“Beyond his spiritual and cultural roles, Oba Adetona was acknowledged for driving socioeconomic advancement in Ijebuland through initiatives in education, healthcare, infrastructure and economic development. 

“His contributions earned him the prestigious national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), underscoring his stature as a national icon,” the council said.

It called for divine guidance in the transition process and prayed for a successor who will preserve and build upon Oba Adetona’s remarkable legacy.

Source: Nigerian Tribune.

MUSWEN said this in a condolence message on the transition of the revered Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland.

The statement, signed by Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, President and Professor Muslih Tayo Yahya, Executive Secretary/CEO, reads:

  ” MUSWEN mourns Oba Sikiru Adetona,  reformer monarch who balanced culture with Islamic values

“The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) is deeply saddened by the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, GCON,
the Awujale of Ijebuland, who departed this world on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.

“The late monarch was the President of the Ogun Muslim Council, one of the pillars of MUSWEN . The League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland equally made him the Leader of all Muslim Obas in Yorubaland at their last Conference held in Ijebu-Ode in 2024.

“Oba Adetona was not only a revered traditional ruler but also a tireless advocate for the rights of traditional rulers to be buried according to their religious beliefs.

“His efforts culminated in the enactment of the Obas and Chiefs Laws of Ogun State 2021, which respects the dignity and faith of traditional rulers in matters of burial rites. This landmark achievement ensures that traditional rulers, regardless of their faith, can be laid to rest in a manner that honors their personal convictions.

“As a Muslim, Oba Adetona’s commitment to Islamic values was evident in his life and work.

” He was a custodian of Yoruba culture who understood the importance of balancing tradition with faith. His legacy will continue to guide us in promoting harmony between cultural heritage and religious principles.

“MUSWEN extends its sincerest condolences to the royal family, the people of Ijebuland, Muslims in Ogun State and South West Nigeria and indeed all Nigerians.

“May Allah be pleased with him, admit his soul into Aljannatul Firdaus.

“Signed:

Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo
President

Professor Muslih Tayo Yahya Executive Secretary /CEO “

Source: The Shield Online.

MUSWEN conveyed this in a condolence message  jointly signed by Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, President and Professor Muslih Tayo Yahya Executive Secretary/CEO.

According to MUSWEN, “The death of Oba Olakulehin is a profound loss to the Muslim community, the traditional institution, Yorubaland and the entire nation.”

The umbrella Muslim body in the South West added that  “His brief but impactful reign was marked by an unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and the preservation of Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage. As a revered monarch, he exemplified wisdom, humility, and dedication to the service of his people, fostering harmony and collaboration between traditional and governmental institutions.

“MUSWEN extends its heartfelt condolences to the Olubadan-in-Council, the immediate and extended family of the late monarch, the Oyo State Traditional Rulers Council, the government and people of Oyo State, and all sons and daughters of Ibadanland.

“The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria stands in solidarity with Ibadanland during this period of grief and prays for divine guidance in the selection of a worthy successor to continue the legacy of the Olubadan.”

Source: City Voice News