The Deputy Chief of Staff to the Oyo State Governor, Hon. Kazim Adeyinka Adeniyi Bibire, has congratulated the executive chairman of Ibarapa North Local Government, Hon. Lateef Akorede on his installation and conferment with the prestigious title of Aare Musulumi of Ayete, describing the honour as a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding contributions to Islam, humanity and the development of Ibarapa land.
Bibire, in a congratulatory message issued following the colourful ceremony in Ayete, described the installation as a significant and historic moment, noting that the conferment of the revered title on Akorede was a fitting acknowledgement of his years of selfless service, philanthropy, humility and commitment to the wellbeing of the people.
The ancient town of Ayete was agog on Sunday as prominent sons and daughters of Ibarapa, Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders and well-wishers gathered to witness the installation of Akorede as the new Aare Musulumi of Ayete.
The ceremony, which attracted people from different walks of life, was characterised by prayers, tributes and goodwill messages, with speakers at the occasion unanimously celebrating Akorede as a man whose impact extends beyond religious circles.
Bibire said the decision by the Ayete Muslim community and traditional institutions to honour Akorede was a testament to the confidence the people have in his character and capacity to provide purposeful leadership.
According to him, the title goes beyond ceremonial recognition, as it represents a call to greater service and a responsibility to continue making positive contributions to the growth of Islam and the development of society.
He commended Akorede for his longstanding commitment to Islamic activities, recalling his support for Qur’anic competitions, mosque construction and renovation, as well as his interventions in the lives of widows, orphans, indigent students and other vulnerable members of society.
Bibire further noted that Akorede’s contributions to Ibarapa transcend religious activities, pointing to his interventions in education, youth and women empowerment, philanthropy and community development.
He described the new Aare Musulumi as a man who has consistently demonstrated that true leadership is measured by the lives touched and communities transformed, rather than by titles or positions.
“Hon. Lateef Akorede has distinguished himself as a dependable son of Ibarapa and a man deeply committed to the progress of his people. His generosity, humility, accessibility and passion for service have earned him the respect and goodwill of the people.
“His installation as Aare Musulumi of Ayete is therefore not surprising. It is a well-deserved recognition of years of sacrifice and commitment to Islam, humanity and community development.
I am confident that he will bring the same energy, wisdom and compassion to this new responsibility,” Bibire said.
He urged Akorede to see the new title as an opportunity to deepen his service to humanity, promote religious harmony and strengthen unity among Muslims and other religious communities across Ibarapa.
Bibire also expressed optimism that Akorede’s elevation would further strengthen collaboration among Islamic leaders, traditional institutions, government and community stakeholders in advancing development across Ayete and the wider Ibarapa axis.
Bibire joined the traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, political leaders, community leaders and residents of Ayete in praying for divine wisdom, guidance, protection and strength for the new Aare Musulumi.
He said: “On behalf of my family and associates, I warmly congratulate you, Aare Musulumi of Ayete, Hon. Lateef Akorede, on this well-deserved honour.
“May Allah grant you the wisdom, strength and good health required to discharge the responsibilities that come with this revered title.
May your tenure be marked by greater accomplishments, unity, peace and remarkable contributions to the advancement of Islam and the people of Ibarapa.
“Once again, congratulations on this historic and prestigious elevation. May your new position open even greater doors of service, impact and fulfilment.”
He prayed that Allah would continue to bless Akorede, enlarge his capacity for service and make his tenure as Aare Musulumi of Ayete a lasting legacy of faith, compassion, unity and development.
