The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), a faith-based civil liberties organization, has condemned recent attacks on Oba Rasheed Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo, labeling them as Islamophobic. The organization dismissed allegations regarding the monarch’s supposed marijuana use, referring to the accusers as “rebellious subjects, unscrupulous elements, mud-slingers, and Muslim-haters.” Additionally, the group congratulated the Oluwo on his recent Court of Appeal victory.
Professor Ishaq Akintola, Executive Director of the organization, issued a statement on Friday, expressing deep concern over the ongoing smear campaign against the Oluwo.
“Years after the installation of Oba Rasheed Akanbi (Telu I) as the Oluwo of Iwo, some envious Nigerians still call him names and launch false allegations at him. Our instinct tells us that it is the handiwork of rebellious subjects, unscrupulous elements, mud-slingers and Muslim-haters.
“It is Islamophobia. Some anti-Islam elements still find it difficult to tolerate Oluwo’s bold and truthful stand on his faith in Islam. As the most outspoken Muslim traditional ruler in Yorubaland, the desire of Muslim-haters is to silence him. They use both mainstream and social media to commit their nefarious atrocities.”
The Oluwo of Iwo, a prominent traditional ruler and figure in Yorubaland, has consistently advocated for the jettisoning of idol worshipping and age long traditional ritual practices in Iwo and Yoruba land. He is also known for advocating for rights and welfare of his community while emphasizing the importance of Islamic values. At some point, he was seen leading prayers at a mosque, a role meant for the Imams.
His outspoken nature and refusal to shy away from controversial issues have garnered both admiration and criticism. Many view him as a progressive leader who is unafraid to confront societal challenges, while others see his assertiveness as a threat to traditional norms.
Oba Rasheed Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo, is a often controversial figure in contemporary Nigerian society. His reign has been marked by a blend of questionable progressive ideals and traditional values, which has led to both admiration and criticism.
Oba Akanbi known for advocating modern approaches to governance and community development, recently emphasized the importance of education, healthcare, and infrastructure, positioning himself as a leader who seeks to uplift his community through progressive policies.
As a prominent Muslim traditional ruler, he has been outspoken about his faith, often addressing issues that affect Muslims in Nigeria. His vocal stance on Islamic matters has made him a representative voice for many in the Muslim community, though it has also attracted criticism from those who oppose his views. In Yoruba land , Oba’s are custodians of traditional values, practices and are expected to embrace all faith as theirs without discrimination.
The Oluwo is trying to navigate the delicate balance between maintaining cultural traditions and embracing modernization. While many support his efforts to modernize the monarchy, some traditionalists view his methods as a departure from customs that have been upheld for generations.
Oba Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo was alleged of giving new narratives that derides and distorts age long Yoruba believe. He was also accused of making derogatory vituperation and arrogantly attacking a fellow Oba.
These allegations and controversies, including accusations regarding his personal conduct and leadership style appears to be a deny to his profile.
The recent allegations of marijuana use, which he has vehemently denied, are a prime example of the controversies surrounding his public image.
- As highlighted by the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), the Oluwo has faced what some perceive as Islamophobic attacks. His critics, particularly on social media, have been accused of engaging in cyberbullying, which raises broader questions about the treatment of prominent Muslim figures in Nigeria.
- Despite controversies, many residents of Iwo and beyond respect Oba Akanbi for his commitment to community engagement. He frequently participates in local events, supports philanthropic initiatives, and encourages youth involvement in leadership, which has garnered him a loyal following.
MURIC’s statement underscored that these attacks infringe on the Oluwo’s fundamental human rights.
“We remind these agent provocateurs that their actions constitute an infringement on Oluwo’s Allah-given fundamental human right. It amounts to cyberbullying contrary to Section 24(1)(a)(b) and 24(2)(a) – (c) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015.
“It is on record that the Oluwo himself has debunked these rumours. They are false, baseless and unfounded. Therefore, anyone found indulging in such illegalities again may have to face the legal consequences.”
To address this issue, the Osun State Chapter of MURIC has been directed to collaborate with progressive groups in Iwo to monitor provocative statements aimed at the Oluwo across various platforms.
“The aim is to catch scapegoats among those social media rascals and teach them one or two lessons in self-control and respect for the rights of others. If sanity is to be infused into this society, there must be consequences for recklessness, lawlessness and the violation of other people’s Allah-given fundamental human rights.
“This stereotyping must stop. There are certain operatives of the ‘Pull-Them-Down’ (PhD) syndrome in this country who have made it their business to profile successful Muslims. They will have MURIC to deal with first. It is our duty as an Islamic human rights organization to stand up for Muslims who face such persecution.
“To His Imperial Majesty, the Oluwo of Iwo (Telu I), we say ‘Keep up the good work you are doing. Continue to serve your subjects with faith and sincerity. Your critics are mere distractions. Remain focused in your dedication to Allah and loyalty to the Nigerian nation. May the crown remain on your head, the beads around your neck, the horse tail in your hand and the queens in your palace till your last day.
“As a digression, we seize this opportunity to congratulate the Oluwo on his recent victory at the Appeal Court.”
