Muslim Leaders Urge Authorities to Prosecute Radio Presenter Over Fabricated Hajj Story
The controversy surrounding Ogun State-based broadcaster Mr. Ibrahim Adesola, popularly known as Akamara, has continued to spark outrage among Nigerian Muslims, who insist that mere apologies are not enough — they want justice served through prosecution.
Akamara, who falsely alleged that a non-existent Alhaji Lukman Owokomago was behind a supposed fetish Ihram ritual scam, publicly confessed and retracted his claims during a stakeholders’ meeting organized by the Wakeelul Muslimeen of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta, Sheikh Iskeel Lawal Sugar, on Saturday, April 26. However, many in the Muslim community argue that the gravity of the offense demands more than a closed-door resolution.
“The matter is beyond forgiveness. Concerned Muslims are saying it is not well managed,” a source told Muslim News Nigeria, which first broke the story.
Leading voices within the community have called for Akamara’s prosecution to ensure justice and deter future misconduct. Dr. Sanusi Lafiagi, a university lecturer, stated firmly, “He should be prosecuted. I heard the voice notes myself. Even if the allegations were true, it was wrong to publicize them in that manner. Prosecution is necessary to prevent future fabrications.”
Similarly, Adedapo Adeyinka Habeeb stressed that accountability is crucial: “This is not about forgiveness. He must face the consequences. Imagine the damage this could have caused if Allah had not protected His religion.”
Ganiu Kadiri urged the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) to initiate legal action, stating, “Suing him will serve as a lesson to others who may contemplate such deception.”
Junaid Yunus emphasized that public apologies were inadequate and called for a comprehensive retraction across print, electronic, and social media platforms. “The enemies of Islam may spin this narrative if we don’t handle it properly,” he warned.
Isiaka Taiwo lamented the informal handling of the case, insisting that legal proceedings are necessary. “Such serious lies spread on the internet shouldn’t be settled quietly. He deliberately maligned a philanthropist and Islam.”
Other Muslim leaders and commentators, including Amir Alli, Adesanya Mutiu Adedeji, and Olalekan Adebimpe, echoed the call for court action, warning that failing to prosecute would encourage future slander against Islam and its adherents.
Abdurrauph Mustapha Afolabi questioned the whereabouts of other participants in the staged scam, demanding that all accomplices be identified and brought to justice. “Where are the others involved? If they are not exposed, it shows we are not serious about the truth,” he said.
Similarly, Abdul Mojeed Olayide Tajudeen insisted that full disclosure and prosecution were the only ways to restore public trust. “All impersonators must be unmasked. Otherwise, the saga will appear to be a deliberate cover-up.”
Mutiu Atanda Fatai Owotabua summed up the prevailing sentiment: “Retraction and apology are not enough. Only a legal process can ensure justice and restore confidence among Muslims.”
As pressure mounts, the Muslim community is sending a clear message: forgiveness without justice is unacceptable.
