By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Ilorin, Nigeria – In a bid to foster peace and unity within the Ilorin Emirate, the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) has waded into the ongoing dispute between two revered Islamic scholars, Sheikh Habibullahi Adam Al-Ilory, the Mudir of Markaz, and Sheikh Sulaiman Faruq Onikijipa, the 4th Grand Mufti of Ilorin Emirate.
Led by its National President, Alhaji AbdulMalik Ayo Abdulmumini, the IEDPU on Tuesday held separate reconciliation meetings with both scholars, urging them to embrace dialogue and harmony for the collective good of the Muslim community.
According to a source close to the Grand Mufti, who spoke to The Merit Newspaper, the meetings were conducted separately, with both scholars reportedly assuring the union of their commitment to peace. The source further emphasized that the intervention was necessary to prevent any escalation of tensions within the Emirate.
“The IEDPU’s mission was to restore harmony and prevent any rift that could divide the Muslim faithful in Ilorin Emirate,” the source stated.
The fallout between the duo has sparked significant discourse among followers of both clerics. Concerned stakeholders within the Emirate have expressed optimism that the intervention by the IEDPU will yield positive results, given the historical role the union has played in maintaining peace in the region.
Observers believe that the unity of the Islamic scholars is crucial for religious and social stability in Ilorin Emirate, known for its deep-rooted Islamic heritage and scholarly traditions. Many residents are hopeful that both clerics will heed the call for reconciliation and work together to uphold the Emirate’s longstanding legacy of peace and scholarship.
As discussions continue, the IEDPU has urged members of the public, particularly the followers of both scholars, to remain calm and refrain from actions that could exacerbate tensions.
The union has also reiterated its commitment to engaging key stakeholders to ensure that the matter is permanently resolved in the spirit of brotherhood and unity.
