As a concerned indigene of Ilorin Emirate Anafi Kehinde Agaka write an open letter to Emir of Ilorin, Islamic Scholars and other stakeholders in Emirate
I am deeply troubled by the increasing moral decay and unlawful behavior among some ALFAs in our community, particularly the younger ones. This disturbing trend has become the norm, making it imperative for our leaders to take urgent and decisive action to curb these negative influences.
It is time for our leaders to organize a comprehensive conference that includes every indigene of Ilorin Emirate, both at home and abroad. Instead of focusing solely on annual fundraising events, this gathering should address pressing societal issues and chart a course for sustainable reforms.
Additionally, the RABITAT-ULLAMAH committee, established by the Emir of Ilorin, must be legally and culturally empowered. Its scope and membership should be expanded to enable it to effectively monitor and regulate the attitudes and conduct of Arabic students, teachers, Islamic organizations, and preachers within the emirate. This measure is necessary to preserve the image of our community and uphold the foundation laid by Sheikh Alimi and other esteemed scholars.
The increasing deviation among young ALFAs is largely influenced by the sermons and reckless utterances of some senior ALFAs, teachers, and preachers. A clear example is a sermon where a well-respected ALFA was quoted saying: “You must eat human flesh before you can become someone or something in this world.” Such dangerous rhetoric, combined with the extravagant lifestyle of some senior ALFAs, has fueled misguided ambitions among their followers. Addressing this issue requires more than just public awareness campaigns—it demands strict enforcement of disciplinary measures, including capital punishment, regardless of status or influence.
The Way Forward
Your Royal Highness, Sheikh Alimi, Eminent Scholars, and Every Indigene of Ilorin Emirate,
Islam was not introduced to Ilorin in broad daylight—it was established through ALKITAB WA SUNNAH. If we stand idly by and allow the moral foundation of our community to collapse, history will not forgive us.
Ilorin was built through the hard labor of our forefathers, particularly Sheikh Alimi and his companions, who sacrificed their comfort and endured fasting and starvation for the sake of Islam. We must not allow a handful of reckless individuals to tarnish their legacy.
The Emir of Ilorin must take decisive action against those promoting evil, regardless of their status within the emirate. Moreover, the curriculum for Arabic and Islamic studies must be revised to include vocational training and entrepreneurship. This reform will ensure that young ALFAs acquire skills for sustainable livelihoods rather than depending solely on religious titles.
Furthermore, laws tailored to the unique needs of our community must be enacted. The foreign legal framework currently in use is outdated and ineffective in addressing our societal challenges. The proposed conference should establish enforceable regulations that align with our cultural and religious values.
Finally, every indigene of Ilorin Emirate must reflect on this question:
What will be the fate of Ilorin in the next 10–20 years if these issues are not properly addressed?
The answer is clear: If our leaders and citizens fail to take a firm stand against these evils, the future of Ilorin is uncertain.
