By Capital Watch Media
The Osun State High Court sitting in Iragbiji, Boripe local government council area, has adjourned the ongoing case involving two clerics both laying claim to the position of Chief Imam of Inisa, Odo-Otin local government council area.
The dispute, which has been unresolved since 2021, escalated into a full-blown crisis in the town, resulting in tension and a breakdown of law and order.
The conflict began following the appointment of a Chief Imam, which split the local Muslim community.
While one group supported Abdulazeez Tijani, another faction insisted on recognising Alhaji Abdulakeem Mahamadujamiu.
As the disagreement deepened, the town found itself without a recognised Chief Imam for several years until Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, and the League of Imams and Alfas in the state intervened.
At the court hearing on Tuesday, counsel for the plaintiff, Mr Jimoh Adebimpe Abdulmumini, informed Justice G.O. Lawal that two Chief Imams were controversially turbaned on the same day in Inisha.
“One was turbaned in the morning and the other in the evening at the same Central Mosque,” said Abdulmumini, describing the unusual situation.
The dual turbaning led to a violent clash among community members, with rival supporters confronting each other at the mosque.
A witness, Jimoh Ibrahim, confirmed the timeline of the events during a cross-examination, detailing how the double appointment had sparked chaos.
“The crisis started immediately after the second turbaning. People were angry, and it became difficult to control the situation,” Ibrahim told the court.
The presiding judge, Justice Lawal, noted the gravity of the situation and urged both parties to maintain peace as the legal process continued.
After hearing the submissions from both sides, Justice Lawal adjourned the case for further proceedings on 7 May 2025.
The court’s decision is eagerly awaited by the people of Inisha, who hope for a resolution that will restore unity and stability to their community.
