Sheikh Abdulraheem Aduanigba, the Chief Imam Yoruba of Ilorin is a man whose faith, intellect and cultural pride have helped to shape the spiritual landscape of Yoruba nation and beyond. Revered across the country as a unifier and scholar, Sheikh Aduanigba stands tall among contemporary Yoruba leaders. He is a blend of ancient wisdom and modern reasoning. Born in the heart of Ilorin, a city famous for its deep Islamic scholarship, Sheikh Aduanigba’s roots run deep in both faith and culture. He hails from a long line of respected Muslim scholars; his ancestors were among those who built the first mosque in the ancient city of Oyo-Ile in the 16th century. In this exclusive interview with AKIN ALADE, Sheikh Aduanigba spoke on his background, his defence of President Tinubu amidst global criticism and why the Yoruba nation must continue to lead Nigeria in peace, tolerance and progress. Enjoy…
Sheikh, the name Abdulraheem Aduanigba is highly respected across Nigeria. Can you take us through your early life and what shaped your mission?
I was born in Ilorin, a proud Yoruba city with a rich Islamic heritage. My parents and ancestors were dedicated scholars of the Qur’an and Arabic literature. From my father, I learned the discipline of faith; from my mother, the virtue of compassion. I received my early Arabic education under my father before attending a local missionary school for my primary education. Later, I proceeded to the famous Daru Ulum College in Ilorin, then to the Kwara State College of Education where I obtained a Diploma in Arabic and Islamic Studies. My journey didn’t end there. I travelled to several countries to deepen my Islamic and cultural knowledge. But through it all, I never forgot my Yoruba identity. My belief is that our religion and our culture can coexist, we can be faithful Muslims and proud Yoruba at the same time.
You are known to be a strong defender of Yoruba culture and unity. Why is that so important to you?
Because the Yoruba nation is the backbone of civilization in West Africa. We are known for our wisdom, peace and diplomacy. I have always said that Yoruba land is the pillar of Nigeria’s unity. Our forefathers built bridges not walls. The Ooni of Ife, the Alaafin of Oyo, Bishop Ajayi Crowther, all stood for progress and harmony. As a Yoruba Imam, my duty is not just to lead prayers but to preserve the moral and spiritual identity of my people. That is why I founded the United Yoruba Kingdom Oodua Foundation, to promote peace, culture, and development across Yorubaland and beyond. Through this foundation, we encourage dialogue among Muslims, Christians, and traditionalists. We are one people under one God.
You recently came into the spotlight after you defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over allegations of genocide. What motivated your defence?
Truth. Only the truth. I cannot stand silent when falsehood is being spread. The viral video by Pastor Ezekiel Achomo was from the Buhari administration, not Tinubu’s time. Yet, some people shared it as if it was a current event to damage the image of this government. I said clearly, “Let the truth be told, that video was from Buhari’s regime, not now. People must stop dragging President Tinubu into what happened in the past.” Tinubu is not the architect of Nigeria’s misfortune. He inherited problems that had been growing for years — insecurity, economic challenges, political tension. To accuse him of genocide is to ignore the truth. We must be fair to leaders, no matter our differences.
What’s your response to those who think religious leaders should stay out of political conversations?
I respect that opinion, but leadership and morality cannot be separated. If religion is about truth, then silence in the face of lies is also a sin. My intervention was not political, it was moral. When misinformation is used to divide a nation, clerics must speak up. We must guide the people with wisdom and facts, not propaganda. Nigeria needs voices that unite, not voices that inflame hatred.
Some have accused the Yoruba of being too accommodating, saying it weakens their political power. What is your take on that?
(Laughs) Being accommodating is not weakness; it is strength. The Yoruba believe in peaceful coexistence, àlàáfíà. That is why we live harmoniously with all tribes and religions. Even during national crises, Yoruba land remains the most stable region. That’s because our culture teaches tolerance, respect and dialogue. If every part of Nigeria practised Yoruba philosophy, there would be no war in this country.
You mentioned that you use both your inherited and learned gifts to secure peace. Can you explain how?
Yes. My ancestors were known for their spiritual insight and wisdom. I inherited that gift but I also studied deeply to understand human behavior, faith and governance. Peace is not a miracle, it is a product of understanding and justice. Through prayer, dialogue, and leadership, I mediate in conflicts, advise leaders and guide youths. Many times, peace has been restored in communities after sincere engagement and divine intervention. I do not use power for self-promotion but for national healing. That is my covenant with Allah.
Let’s talk about Donald Trump’s recent remarks about sending troops to Nigeria to protect Christians. What’s your view?
That statement is misleading and unnecessary. Nigeria is not at war between religions. We have interfaith marriages, interfaith families, and communities where Muslims and Christians live together peacefully. Trump’s comment should be understood politically. Nigeria’s recent public support for Palestine has angered some Western leaders who see things only through religious lenses. But Nigeria is a sovereign nation — we don’t need foreign troops to protect us. What we need is truth, good governance and justice among ourselves.
As Chief Imam Yoruba, you’ve been recognized in several academic works and books. How do you feel about being included in those records?
I am humbled and thankful. It means our efforts are being noticed. Authors like Senator Adebanji Akintoye, Princess Bukky Ogundeji, Deaconess Felicia Adebola and many others have written about the contributions of the Yoruba nation and mentioned my humble self. But I always say this recognition is not mine alone. It belongs to the Yoruba people. It is a proof that culture and faith can coexist beautifully. My joy comes when people understand that message.
What is your vision for the future of Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole?
My vision is simple: a Yoruba land that remains united, prosperous and spiritually sound, and a Nigeria where no man is judged by tribe or religion.
The Yoruba must continue to lead by example. We have always been the light of wisdom in Africa. Let us keep that fire burning. We must teach our children respect, honesty and cultural pride. For Nigeria, I pray for a government that listens, a youth that builds, and elders that guide. Together, we can make this nation great again.
Finally, what message do you have for Nigerians, especially in these challenging times?
My message is this: peace begins with truth. Let us stop spreading lies, hatred and tribal propaganda. Whether Muslim, Christian, or traditionalist we are one family under God. We must support our leaders where they mean well and correct them with respect where they go wrong. President Tinubu deserves our prayers and cooperation, not condemnation.
