Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land Declares Marathon Prayers Over Insecurity, Peace, Development

The Office of the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has announced a special marathon prayer programme to seek divine intervention over the growing insecurity in Nigeria and to pray for peace, unity and sustainable development in Oyoland.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Islamic cleric expressed concern over the persistent security challenges confronting the country, particularly in Oyo State, noting that the situation requires both practical efforts and sincere spiritual intervention from all stakeholders.

According to the statement, the prayer programme will feature Adhkaar, Nawaafil, recitation of the Holy Qur’an and special supplications dedicated to the peace and progress of the land. The spiritual gathering is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, which coincides with the Day of Arafah, at the Oyo Central Mosque from 12:00pm until Maghrib.

The Grand Chief Imam said the prayers would focus on seeking Allah’s mercy and protection for Oyoland, Oyo State and Nigeria, especially amid rising cases of insecurity, kidnapping, violence and social unrest affecting communities across the country.

Special prayers will also be offered for the wellbeing, wisdom and divine guidance of His Imperial Majesty, Abdul Hakeem Abimbola Owoade I, as well as for greater prosperity, infrastructural development and human capacity advancement across Oyoland.

The statement further noted that prayers would be made for the emergence of Oyo Town as the capital of the proposed Oyo State in the coming political dispensation.

The Grand Chief Imam also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, youth groups and Nigerians at large to unite in prayers and collective efforts aimed at restoring peace, harmony and development to the nation.

He equally urged Muslims to observe fasting on the Day of Arafah, describing it as one of the most spiritually rewarding days in Islam and a unique opportunity for supplication, forgiveness and divine mercy.

The cleric assured that adequate arrangements would be put in place to ensure comfort and convenience for participants throughout the programme, while praying for lasting peace, stability and prosperity across Oyoland and Nigeria.