Islamic Scholars in Osun Oppose Tenure Extension for Pilgrims Board Chairman

A group of Islamic scholars in Osun State is opposing plans to extend the term of Dr. Moruf Isola, the chairman of the Osun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, beyond 2026. The Supreme Council of Islamic Scholars of Nigeria, Osun State Branch, expressed their concerns in a letter to Governor Ademola Adeleke.

The letter, dated October 9, 2026, was signed by Mallam Isiak Abdul Rahman and five other scholars from various regions including Ede, Ikire, Ife, Ikirun, and Ila. They argue that Dr. Isola has already served for eight consecutive years, making him the longest-serving chairman in the board’s history.

This opposition follows a statement from the Osun State League of Imams and Alfas, which suggested that Dr. Isola should serve until 2030. The League argued that no community should claim exclusive rights to the position and that other regions have not yet had a chairman.

However, the Supreme Council criticized the idea of extending his term to 2030, saying it would unfairly allow him to serve for 12 years. They noted that no chairman in the South-West has served more than eight years.

The Council highlighted that regions like Osogbo, Ijesa, and Iwo have already had significant time in the role, while Ife, Ede, Ikire, Ikirun, and Ila-Orangun have not had a chairman. They urged the governor to appoint someone from a zone that has never held the position.

Additionally, the Council pointed out that there is no law granting the League of Imams and Alfas the exclusive right to nominate the chairman. They called on Governor Adeleke to encourage Dr. Isola to step down after his eight years to promote fairness and balance among the different regions.