A prominent member of the Oyo State Muslim community, Ambassador Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade, has commended the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abdul Hakeem Owoade Elewuetu I, for what he described as a “visionary and divinely guided” decision in appointing Barrister Bilal Akinola Husayn Akeugberu, popularly known as Barrister Bilaah, as the new Grand Imam of Oyo.
Agunbiade, in a statement issued in Ibadan on Wednesday, congratulated the new Grand Imam, described his selection as “well-deserved” and a reflection of his piety, scholarship, and service to the Muslim Ummah.
“Alhamdulillah! I heartily congratulate Sheikh Al Imam Barrister Bilaah Oseni Akinola on this most deserved selection as the Grand Imam of Oyo,” Agunbiade said. “This appointment is a recognition of his piety, academic distinction, and commitment to Islam and humanity.”
He praised the Alaafin for heeding the call of the Muslim community by prioritising scholarship, moral uprightness, and unity in his decision. Agunbiade noted that his earlier public appeal, published on August 8, 2025, had urged the monarch to exercise foresight in the appointment process.
“The Alaafin’s choice of Barrister Bilaah reflects foresight and justice. It is a decision that will strengthen unity among Muslims in Oyo and inspire the younger generation,” he added.
Agunbiade urged Muslim organisations, scholars, and residents of Oyo to rally behind the new Grand Imam and work collectively for peace, harmony, and community development.
