02/08/2026
PALACE PRESS RELEASE
OHINOYI OF EBIRA HOLDS PEACE MEETING WITH MASWAJ LEADERSHIP, URGES WISDOM AND MODERATION IN DA'WAH ACTIVITIES
As part of the Ohinoyi's steadfast commitment to preserving the peace, unity, and harmonious coexistence currently enjoyed across Ebira land, His Royal Majesty today, being 1st August, 2026, summoned to his Palace, the leadership of Markaz Ahlus-Sunnah Wal-Jamā'ah (MASWAJ), including Ustaz Abu Hamza.
The meeting was convened by His Majesty, Alh. (Dr.) Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, following public concerns generated by recent discussions surrounding the style of Da'wah employed by Ustaz Abu Hamza, which has attracted widespread attention and the potential to undermine public peace.
Addressing the delegation, the Ohinoyi admonished Ustaz Abu Hamza to continually exercise wisdom, patience, restraint, and moderation in his religious propagation.
The Royal Father emphasized that while Da'wah remains a noble obligation, it must always be conducted in a manner that promotes understanding, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. He noted that Ebira land is home to people of diverse religious convictions and orientations, making tolerance and respect for one another indispensable for sustaining peace.
His Majesty cautioned against confrontational methods of preaching capable of generating unnecessary acrimony or inciting public disorder, stressing that every citizen has a responsibility to protect the fragile peace presently prevailing in the land.
Other eminent Islamic scholars and Palace Chiefs present at the meeting also offered valuable counsel, appealing to Ustaz Abu Hamza to embrace a more conciliatory approach to Da'wah. They cited relevant Qur'anic injunctions and historical precedents to demonstrate that wisdom, gentleness, and good character remain the most effective means of inviting people to the path of Allah.
Responding on behalf of the delegation, the Ameer of MASWAJ, Ustaz Ibrahim Ohindase, expressed profound appreciation to His Majesty for his fatherly concern and timely intervention. He reaffirmed the group's deep respect, loyalty, and unyielding support for the throne of the Ohinoyi of Ebira and all initiatives aimed at promoting lasting peace and development.
The MASWAJ leadership further maintained that the organisation has no affiliation whatsoever with violence or any act capable of threatening public peace. It assured the Palace that it would continue to sensitise and caution its members to remain law-abiding and peaceful, adding that any member found acting contrary to the group's principles would face appropriate disciplinary measures, including possible expulsion.
At the conclusion of the meeting, His Majesty expressed satisfaction with the maturity, decorum, and spirit of understanding demonstrated by all participants, particularly commending Ustaz Ibrahim Ohindase for his constructive disposition. He encouraged Ustaz Abu Hamza to give due consideration to the counsel offered and assured all citizens that the Palace remains committed to fairness, justice, and the protection of the rights and welfare of every law-abiding subject.
His Royal Majesty concluded with prayers for enduring peace, unity, and prosperity in Ebira land and for the continued success of the administration of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, commending the Kogi State Government for its sustained efforts in improving security and infrastructural development across the State.
Signed:
Mall. Jibril Haddy
Chief Security Officer
Palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebira
1st August, 2026
