The Grand Mufti of Yorubaland, Sheikh Abdulrasak Abdulazeez Ishola, has issued a strong warning against the newly formed League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland, cautioning that the group could pave the way for extremist ideologies similar to Boko Haram and the Maitatsine movement to infiltrate the Southwest region of Nigeria.
According to Sheikh Ishola, the emergence of parallel religious structures without proper consultation and traditional Islamic scholarly oversight could create fertile ground for radical teachings and sectarian divisions. He stressed that Yorubaland has historically practiced a moderate and culturally integrated form of Islam, and any deviation from this tradition could threaten peace and social harmony.
The Grand Mufti called on Muslim leaders, traditional rulers, and government authorities to closely monitor the activities of the new league, urging unity, dialogue, and adherence to orthodox Islamic scholarship to prevent radicalization.
He further warned that religious extremism, once rooted, is difficult to contain, citing the devastating impact of Boko Haram insurgency in Northern Nigeria and the violent Maitatsine uprisings of the past.
As the debate intensifies, the League of Imams and Alfas is yet to officially respond to the allegations.
By
