Appoint new Muslim Pilgrims Board chairman from unrepresented zones — Islamic scholars

Islamic scholars in Osun State have called upon Governor Ademola Adeleke to appoint a new chairman for the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board from an area that has not previously held the position. In a letter written on October 9, 2026, the Supreme Council of Islamic Scholars of Nigeria, Osun branch, expressed concern over any arrangement that might perpetuate the current chairman, Dr Moruf Isola, in office beyond 2026.

The scholars argue that this would be unjust and unbalanced, as Isola has been in power for eight consecutive years, making him the longest-serving chairman in the board's history. The scholar representatives from Ede, Ikire, Ife, Ikirun, and Ila zones wrote to Governor Adeleke, pointing out that Isola's long tenure has prevented other zones from having the opportunity to produce a chairman.

This matter became contentious when the Osun State League of Imams and Alfas, led by Shaykh Musa Animasahun, proposed that an Iwo indigenous person should be appointed to the position. However, the Supreme Council of Islamic Scholars rejected this extension, deeming it both unfair and excessive, as no other zone has held the position for such a prolonged period.

The scholars emphasized that the League of Imams and Alfas does not have the authority to dictate the appointment of the chairman, and urged Governor Adeleke to encourage Isola to step down after his eighth year and appoint a successor from an underrepresented area. This move, they argue, would ensure equitable representation and a more balanced management of Muslim pilgrims' affairs in Osun State.