By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Ilorin, Nigeria – Concerned Nigerian Muslims have called on the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, to intervene in the escalating rift between two prominent Islamic scholars, Sheikh Habibullah Adam Al-Ilory, the Mudir of Markaz Agege, and Sheikh Sulaimon Faruq Onikijipa, the Mufti Diyar of Ilorin.
The feud, which has gained traction on social media, has sparked widespread concern, as allegations deemed un-Islamic and inappropriate have been made against Sheikh Onikijipa by Sheikh Habibullah. Many Nigerian Muslims, particularly followers and students of both scholars, fear that if left unchecked, the conflict could deepen divisions within the Muslim community in Ilorin and beyond.
A Once Cordial Relationship Turns Sour
Sheikh Sulaimon Faruq Onikijipa, a respected Islamic scholar, is an alumnus of Markaz Agege, where he studied under the institution’s late founder, Sheikh Adam Abdullahi Al-Ilory. Following Sheikh Adam’s demise, his son, Sheikh Habibullah Adam Al-Ilory, took over the leadership of Markaz and continued to maintain a strong relationship with Sheikh Onikijipa—until recent events strained their ties.
In a Ramadan lecture delivered at Markaz on Saturday and Sunday, March 22-23, 2025, Sheikh Habibullah, known for addressing contemporary national issues, deviated from his usual discourse to directly criticize Sheikh Onikijipa. He accused him of harboring ill feelings toward him, a statement that has fueled speculation and concern within the Muslim community.
Calls for Reconciliation
Muslim leaders and well-meaning Nigerians are now appealing to the Emir of Ilorin to mediate and restore harmony between the two scholars. Many recall that Sheikh Habibullah played a significant role in securing Sheikh Onikijipa’s appointment as the Mufti Diyar of Ilorin Emirate, a title conferred by the Emir himself. Their previous mentor-student relationship, they argue, should not be tainted by personal grievances.
Community leaders emphasize that Sheikh Onikijipa should continue to regard Sheikh Habibullah as a mentor, given his close ties to the late Sheikh Adam, his former teacher and guardian. They urge both scholars to resolve their differences amicably in the spirit of Islamic brotherhood and maintain the unity of the Muslim community.
Emir’s Role as a Peacemaker
As the custodian of Ilorin’s Islamic heritage, the Emir of Ilorin is being urged to swiftly step in and mediate a peaceful resolution. Scholars, students, and concerned individuals believe that the Emir’s intervention will help prevent further division and restore mutual respect between the two prominent clerics.
The unfolding dispute has become a major talking point within Islamic circles in Nigeria, with many calling for restraint and unity. Observers believe that resolving this rift will not only reinforce the values of brotherhood in Islam but also preserve the legacy of Markaz Agege and its contributions to Islamic scholarship in Nigeria.
As the Muslim community continues to follow developments closely, many hope that wisdom, dialogue, and the Emir’s influence will bring about a peaceful resolution before the situation further escalates.
