: “Chief Imam’s Reckless Distortion of History, Unwarranted Interference in Traditional Matters Will Not Be Tolerated!”
The Owalukare Royal Family of Ikare Akoko has issued a strong warning to the Chief Imam of Ikare Akoko, Alhaji Abass Abu Bakari Muhammed, over what it described as “utterly reckless and misleading statements” concerning the historical origins and traditional structure of the town.
In a statement signed by Ifẹ Ajibuwa, Esq., on behalf of the royal family, the Chief Imam was accused of arrogating to himself the authority to speak on matters of kingship and royal lineage in a manner capable of igniting avoidable tension.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Ikare Akoko is under the paramount rulership of His Imperial Majesty, Ọba Akadiri Saliu Momoh, IV, CON, the Olukare of Ikare Land. This position is firmly grounded in history, tradition, and recognized authority, and cannot be casually rewritten by uninformed commentary,” the statement read.
The royal family emphasized that it is not within the remit of any religious functionary to venture into or manipulate issues of kingship and royal lineage, describing such conduct as “highly irresponsible and legally indefensible.”
The family called on the Chief Imam to issue an immediate and unreserved public retraction and apology, and urged the Muslim community to call him to order. “The peace, unity, and dignity of Ikare Akoko are non-negotiable, and will be firmly protected against any act capable of undermining them,” the statement warned.
