The Oduduwa Nation Youth has released an official statement distancing itself from, and firmly condemning, the actions and public declarations of Sheikh Daood Imran Molaasan, the Grand Mufti of Iwo Land and founder of Jama’at Ta’awunil Muslimeen.
According to the group, Sheikh Molaasan is not the Grand Mufti of Yorubaland, and his continued attempt to project himself as such is misleading and unacceptable.
In the statement signed by Comrade Oyegunle Oluwamayowa Omotoyole (Omayor), the youth organisation criticised the cleric for what it described as persistent disrespect toward prominent Yoruba monarchs, particularly the Ooni of Ife, regarded across Oduduwa territory as the foremost traditional ruler. The group noted that such behaviour undermines long-standing Yoruba cultural values rooted in honor and reverence for royalty.
The youth body also raised alarm over past activities and comments linked to the cleric, citing concerns about public safety and communal harmony in Yorubaland. They referenced reports surrounding a controversial 2017 gathering in Iwo allegedly organised with the support of the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi which generated widespread fear among residents.
Additionally, the group condemned Sheikh Molaasan’s public encouragement of training teenagers in firearm handling, describing the idea as dangerous and capable of fueling violence.
The statement further accused the Mufti’s rhetoric of heightening religious tension, noting that coexistence among Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers historically a hallmark of Yorubaland—has reportedly deteriorated since the rise of activities associated with the cleric and the Oluwo of Iwo. According to the group, the region has witnessed increased insecurity, including incidents of kidnapping and killings.
Rejecting what it described as misleading recent media comments credited to the Mufti, the youth organisation reaffirmed that Islam has always coexisted peacefully and respectfully within Yoruba society.
They alleged, however, that rising religious extremism linked to certain actors has disrupted this balance.
The Oduduwa Nation Youth also condemned the conduct of the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, claiming that some of his actions undermine Yoruba traditional values.
The group warned that alleged evidence of ritual practices could be used by foreign entities, including Saudi Arabia, to discredit Yoruba cultural heritage.
Calling for swift intervention, the youth urged both the Federal Government of Nigeria and the international community to launch an immediate investigation into the activities of Sheikh Molaasan, the Oluwo of Iwo, and their supporters, stressing the urgency of safeguarding peace and unity across Yorubaland.
The group reiterated its stance against terrorism, extremism, violence, and any move to impose Shari’a law in Oduduwa territories.
The statement concluded by urging Yoruba youths to support the call for either the dissolution of Nigeria or the nullification of the 1999 Constitution described as a document imposed by military decree arguing that doing so is the only path toward protecting the region’s people, culture, and resources.
Signed:
Comrade Oyegunle Oluwamayowa Omotoyole (Omayor)
Oduduwa Nation Youth Leader, Home Based
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