The ancient town of Saki stood still on Sunday, October 4, 2026, as prominent Islamic clerics, traditional leaders, academics, and dignitaries from all walks of life converged on the palace to witness the official installation and turbaning of renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Musa Agbarigidaoma, as the Chief Imam of the Okere Palace Mosque.
The ceremony marked a profound spiritual homecoming for the lineage of the revered late Imam Musa, the patriarch of the family whose descendants have historically anchored Islamic leadership in the Oke-Ogun corridor.
The royal court was filled to capacity with dignitaries representing both “town and gown.” Leading the assembly was the royal host, His Royal Majesty, the Okere of Sakiland, Oba Dr. Surv. Khalid Olabisi Ilugbemidepo, alongside the Chief Imam of Sakiland, Sheikh Azeez Ishola Jejekunmi, both of whom had earlier ratified the historic appointment.
Also in attendance were the Mufti of Sakiland; the Khalifa Agbarigidaoma leading a high-level delegation of scholars from Ilorin, Kwara State; prominent community leader Engr. Sharafadeen Onijo; along with scores of titled chiefs, community elders, and scholars from across the country.
A major highlight of the occasion was the public presentation of commemorative gifts to the newly turbaned Chief Imam by the illustrious Awelenje family, represented by Dr. Abdullahi Awelenje and Engr. Abiola Awelenje. The gesture served as a moving renewal of a century-old spiritual and domestic bond connecting both dynasties, tracing back to when the patriarch, Sheikh Ahmad Tijani Awelenje, completed his early Qur’anic studies under the roof and tutelage of Sheikh Musa’s grandfather in Saki.
In their separate remarks, speakers lauded the selection of Sheikh Agbarigidaoma, describing it as well-deserved and providential. They highlighted his dual mastery of classical Islamic theology and Western education, his track record as a two-term former Chairman of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) in Saki, and his tireless commitment to interfaith harmony and educational development across Oyo State.
Responding after his turbaning, Sheikh Musa Agbarigidaoma expressed deep gratitude to Almighty Allah, the Okere of Sakiland, the Chief Imam of Sakiland, and the entire Muslim Ummah for the sacred trust reposed in him. He pledged to use the palace pulpit to advance sound Islamic teachings, foster communal peace, and bridge religious divides throughout Sakiland and beyond.
The event concluded with special prayers for the peace and prosperity of Sakiland, Oyo State, and the nation at large.
