THE League of Imams and Alfas of Oyo State, under the leadership of the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh AbdulGaniy Abubakri Agbotomokekere, has installed a Saki-born Islamic scholar and philanthropist, Dr Mustapha Abdul Aziz Akanji (Aladikun), as the Fakhar-l-Muminin (‘Pride of the Believers’) of Oyo State.
Dr Akanji was turbaned on Sunday at a ceremony held at the Ibadan Central Mosque, Oja’ba, and presided over by Sheikh Agbotomokekere.
The Chief Imam of Ibadanland described the new Fakhar-l-Muminin as a notable Islamic cleric whose charitable activities deserve recognition.
‘We are aware of many laudable projects Dr Akanji had embarked upon; his installation as Fakhar-l-Muminin of Oyo State is a befitting honour,’ Agbotomokekere affirmed.
In his sermon, the Mufasir of Ibadanland, Sheikh Baari Adetunji, advised Dr Akanji not to relent in his philanthropic efforts toward Islamic advancement, noting that charity remains the most profitable venture in the sight of Allah.
‘Spending in the cause of Allah attracts rewards in this world and hereafter,’ Adetunji noted.
The Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi, who presented the staff of office to the honoree, described Dr Akanji as a humble and worthy ambassador of Saki across the world.
The Grand Mufti of Sakiland, Sheikh Ibrahim Hashim, prayed that Allah would assist the honoree in living up to the expectations of his new title.
In his address, the honoree described his new title as a trust, adding that he intends to execute the responsibility it entails with faith and dedication.
He promised to inaugurate an office in Ibadan to continue his humanitarian services and zakat distribution to needy Muslims.
Dr Akanji further explained that the establishment of schools, universities and hospitals in Saki and Côte d’Ivoire formed part of his efforts to give back to society, stressing that his new title is a sacred trust to extend philanthropic gestures to more Muslims.
‘This title is a clarion call to further serve humanity through the empowerment of the unemployed, especially Muslim students, scholars and other Nigerians,’ he stated.
He also advised Nigerians to always remember their leaders in prayer so they may deliver good governance for the benefit of the people.
The turbaning of the Fakhar-l-Muminin of Oyo State was graced by notable Islamic scholars and representatives of Muslim organisations from far and near.