The appointment of Professor Ilyas Usman as the first-ever Igbo Imam Abuja National Mosque has generated mixed reactions from Nigerians.
Prof. Usman, who delivered his inaugural khutbah (sermon) during Friday’s (today’s) Jumu’ah prayer, marks a significant milestone in the mosque’s history and the broader Nigerian Muslim community.
The appointment of Prof. Usman has received a warm reception, particularly by the South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON).
The group congratulated him in a statement, emphasising that his new role is both a personal achievement and a sacred responsibility.
SEMON stated, “This prestigious role is not only a testament to your unwavering dedication and scholarly excellence but also a divine blessing and responsibility to lead the Ummah in worship and service to Allah.”
The group also praised the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) for fostering togetherness under the leadership of President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.
Usman will join two other active Imams at the Abuja National Mosque—Prof. Ibrahim Makari and Prof. Muhammad Kabir—in leading Jumu’ah and daily congregational prayers on a rotational basis. He steps in for Sheikh Ahmad Onilewura, who has been on extended sick leave.
However, in series of statements on social media, Nigerians greeted his appointment as Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja with mixed rreactions.
While many applauded the selection of an Igbo man as Imam, a cross section of Nigerians lamented that the Igbos are always sidelined when it comes to leading the political affairs of the country.
This publication highlights some of the reactions of Nigerians to the appointment of Usman as Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja.
Muritala Saheed, “We chose imamship based on Islamic knowledge, irrespective of tribes. but it is a historical day for Igbo’s people because they were never appointed as National Mosque imam before.”
Ahmed Abdul, “Being an imam is not about tribe in Islam but the most knowledgeable person.”
Ibrahim Ishola, “I don’t see anything wrong in that. As long as he’s a Muslim and he has the capacity, ability, and knowledge to be the imam, Bisimilahi. Tribe doesn’t matter in Islam. We’re all equal in front of the almighty creator.”
Adamu Muktar: “In Islam, we don’t mind where the imam comes from; we’re just one people; he’s our brother. I wish him well and all the best.”
Memphis Berry, “Islam did not originate in Hausaland nor from Yoruba; it’s a religion from the Middle East, and it spread to the whole world. I don’t see anything to celebrate here just because an Igbo man chooses a religion to follow just the same way Igbo men choose Hindus and Buddhas to follow.
“Some people celebrating here as if Mecca is in northern Nigeria is quite ludicrous. Just as Christianity came from the Middle East and the majority of the Igbos followed it the same way some Igbos choose Hindus, Shinto, Buddha, Islam, and Zoroastrians.”
Peter Drock, “when they need a competent hand to run their personal affairs, they go for the best, but if it concerns the whole nation, they will remember you are Igbo, Hausa, or Yoruba.”
Sylvester Paul, “I am not a Muslim, but I am happy with this development; we are gradually winning over tribal sentiment, which now remains the religion.”
Ameenatu Ibraheem, “Hahaha, the nonbelievers will not like this. Alhamdullilah. He is a Muslim, above all an imam. Masha Allah. More to come to embrace the peace.”
Jamil Shu’ibu, “I hope one day Igbos will give a big church in Anambra or Imo to preach as a Fulani pastor.”
Kareem Abdul, “What’s his Igbo name? He’s completely hausalized in appearance.”
Hamza Opaluwa: “One Nigeria will only happen when an Igbo man is elected as president of this country. Let the Hausa and Yoruba support the Igbo presidency come 2027; that is when I will say there is one Nigeria.”
UC page, “Let him remain in Abuja; don’t step your feet on Biafraland if you allow yourself to be used.”
Davidson Ebuka, They can’t give an Igbo President; it is Imam; they gave the Igbos. God punish all of you. The Imam will only practice his Islam in Abuja and will not bring it to Igboland.”
