Following a viral video showing an attack on Muslims attending a Ramadan lecture in Oyo, Engr. Abduljelyl Adekunle Kareem, MCIArb, MCIOB, MCABโthe Turaki Adini of Oyo State and Mogaji of the Adanla familyโhas addressed public concerns in a new video.
Earlier in the week, Alhaji Kareem issued a strong condemnation of the attack, demanding an apology from those responsible. He warned that failure to seek forgiveness would result in divine retribution.
In his initial statement, he said: “I have a message for those who attacked the Ramadan Lecture gathering in Oyo. Anyone who inflicted pain on Muslim faithful will face the consequences from Almighty Allah. Regardless of the motiveโwhether political or otherwiseโno one should ever attack individuals attending a religious lecture, especially during Ramadan. If the attackers do not apologize, they will suffer because no religious gathering should be targeted, even in times of war. If you have grievances with a religious leader, there are legal ways to address them, such as filing a petition.”
However, in a follow-up video on Friday, Alhaji Kareem clarified his stance after receiving feedback from various people.
“I usually donโt do this, but people have spoken to me since my reaction. Some warned me to be careful because the governor is my brother, implying that he orchestrated the attack. But the Governor I know does not support violence. Even if offended, he would never resort to such actions. Governor Makinde and I have known each other long before he took office, and he remains my elder brother.”
Addressing his role as Turaki Adini of Oyo State, he emphasized his duty to speak on matters affecting the Muslim community.
“When I was turbaned as Turaki Adini, it was not only by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland but by the entire Muslim community. I am also concerned about Christians because the God who sent me does not limit who I should helpโI care about humanity in general.”
Alhaji Kareem also responded to questions regarding his connection to the Imam featured in the viral video.
“I swear by God’s name that I did not know him personally. However, when I spoke with someone yesterday, I was reminded that he had released a video last year criticizing the governor. I later obtained his number from the Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Board, Atere, and spoke with him for the first time. My initial reaction was not specifically about him but about the innocent Muslims attacked during the lecture. If the Imam had committed any wrongdoing, there are legal ways to handle it instead of resorting to violence.”
Finally, he dismissed claims that he made the video in support of Aroshad, a fellow Muslim.
“Aroshad is my brother, but we had not spoken in a long time until a few days ago. I cannot be bullied or manipulated into speaking out. I am not doing this for personal gain or favorsโI believe this is my calling.”
His statement aims to clarify misconceptions surrounding his earlier comments while reaffirming his commitment to justice and humanity.
