Senator Sumonu, Oyo Chief Imam, others pay Thank-You visit to Oyo Deputy Gov*

Senator Monsurat Sumonu, the Chief Imam of Oyo Land, and other dignitaries paid a thank‑you visit to the Oyo State Deputy Governor on Wednesday at his Bashorun residence in Ibadan.

The visit followed the successful turbaning ceremony of Alhaji Bilaal Oseni Akinola as the new Chief Imam of Oyo Land, which was officiated by the Chairman Turbaning Planning Committee, Alhaji Imam Daud Tijani Igiogun, under the supervision of Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and attended by senior Muslim government officials on Saturday.

The visiting delegation was led by the chairman of the turbaning Planning committee, Alhaji Igi Ogun, and included Chairman of Atiba Local Government Area, Hon. Olukitbi, and other committee members.

They were warmly received by Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdul‑Raheem Adebayo Lawal and his wife, Chief (Mrs) Ajibike Ajibola Lawal, and Hon. TT Olayiwola, Chairman Irepo Local Government, Alhaji Kunle Sani, Special Assistant on Administration, PA Adewale Mutalib and other associates of His Excellency.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Alhaji Imam Dauud Tijani Igi Ogun thanked the Deputy Governor for his presence and for leading a large government delegation to the ceremony despite his busy schedule.

He described Barr. Lawal as a pious Muslim deeply committed to the development of Islam in Oyo State, noting that “there is no greater reward for a good deed than good.”

The team however commended Barr. Lawal’s active representation of the Muslim community, his protection of Muslim interests, and his humility and leadership.

“Thank you for your presence and for leading a powerful delegation to the event. We appreciate you, Your Excellency,” they said.

During the meeting, the Deputy Governor thanked the visiting delegation for their courtesy and congratulated the newly‑installed Chief Imam of Oyo Land on his appointment.

He urged Imam Akinola to promote unity among Muslims throughout Oyo town and Oyo state at large, and to work collaboratively with other contestants rather than viewing them as adversaries.

The Deputy Governor also called on the Chief Imam to champion the advancement of Islam in the community.