Alaafin of Oyo debunks Chief Imam appointment rumours, stressing that no candidate has been chosen and only the monarch has the authority to decide

In a statement released by the Alaafin’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the palace described the speculation as baseless and mischievous, urging residents to disregard it.

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“The attention of the Alaafin’s Palace has been drawn to wild speculations that a new Chief Imam has been appointed for Oyo,” the statement read.

“The good people of Oyo and the general public are advised to disregard such unfounded, baseless, and mischievous information, as no candidate has been chosen for the number one Islamic seat in Oyo town.”

According to the palace, the selection process is still underway with necessary consultations ongoing. The monarch urged the people to remain calm and patient until the rightful choice is formally announced.

Reaffirming the authority of the throne, the palace stressed: “It should be noted that only His Imperial Majesty has the exclusive preserve to appoint a new Chief Imam for the town.”

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The clarification comes amid heightened speculation within the community, with the palace now calling for peace and restraint as the process runs its course.