The office of the Chief Imam of Ijebuland and President of the League of Imams and Alfas of Ijebuland, Shaykh Miftaudeen Ayanbadejo, on Saturday, October 10, 2026, clarified the recent directive banning men with plaited hair, earrings, and tattoos from entering mosques to observe congregational prayers.
The clarification was made during an official press briefing at 4:00 PM at the Ijebu-Ode Central Mosque Secretariat.
Addressing journalists on behalf of the Islamic leader, the Head of Media and Public Relations for the League of Imams and Alfas of Ijebuland, Alhaji Tajudeen Oyesanya, emphasized that the decision was not intended to be punitive or discriminatory, but rather to protect the spiritual integrity and decorum of Islamic places of worship.
”The Mosque occupies a position of profound spiritual significance in Islam,” Oyesanya stated. “It is a place of worship, humility, reflection, moral refinement, and communal fellowship. The directive is aimed purely at ensuring that worshippers accord the house of Allah the sanctity, decorum, and dignity it deserves.”
The clarify comes following mixed reactions from members of the public regarding enforcement guidelines across various central mosques in Ijebuland.
Religious authorities reiterated that while Islam welcomes all individuals seeking spiritual growth, congregational etiquette and Islamic modesty protocols must be respected within the sacred premises.
The leadership urged Muslim youths to reflect the moral values and modesty required of the faith both inside and outside the places of worship, reaffirming that the mosque remains open as a center for moral transformation and spiritual guidance for all sincere seekers.
