Yoruba Muslim leaders warn against unauthorised Islamic chieftaincy titles

The League of Imams and Alfas in Yoruba Land has warned individuals and organisations against conferring Islamic chieftaincy titles historically associated with the group without approval from its recognised leadership.

The organisation said unauthorised use of such titles could create confusion about their origin, meaning and legitimacy.

Its position was contained in a disclaimer signed by the league’s president, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere, and other senior Muslim leaders across the South-West.

The league said it had become aware of individuals or groups presenting themselves as having authority to confer titles similar or identical to honours traditionally issued by the organisation.

According to the league, such titles have historically been used to recognise Muslims for contributions to Islam and the welfare of Muslim communities in Yoruba Land.

It said no society, association or group should represent itself as an authorised affiliate or arm of the League without formal approval.

The organisation said it was particularly concerned about titles associated with it being reproduced or conferred indiscriminately, including in situations where recipients might not be Muslims.

However, the league stressed that its warning was not directed against any specific individual and that legitimate organisations and traditional institutions remained free to create and confer their own honours.

It urged traditional rulers, Muslim communities, government authorities and members of the public to verify claims by organisations purporting to act under the League’s authority.