Ogbona Muslims Community

A HISTORY OF ISLAM IN OGBONA COMMUNITY, AVHIANWU CLAN Summary The history of Islam in the Ogbona community is a fascinating story of perseverance, dedication, and the power of faith. From its early beginnings in the 20th century to the present day, Islam has grown and developed in the community, shaped by the efforts of pioneering individuals and groups. Some key points from the research work by Mallam Pius Etokhana Abdulmalik include: Early challenges: Islam faced significant challenges in Ogbona, including apostasy and a lack of understanding of Islamic teachings. Pioneering individuals: Early Muslims like Otuaye (Umoru) Oboarekpe, Ikhagu, Idode (Idris), Oyagha, and Brai Okozi played a crucial role in introducing and spreading Islam in the community. Influence of Yoruba scholar: The arrival of a Yoruba scholar, known as ‘Alfa’, marked a turning point in the development of Islam in Ogbona, leading to a significant increase in the number of Muslims. Key figures: Individuals like Seidu Anabor, Mustapha Imhana, Seidu Eruakhor, and Alhaji Suleiman Oyarekhua were instrumental in promoting Islam and shaping the community’s Islamic identity. Establishment of Islamic institutions: The establishment of Islamic centers, mosques, and organizations like the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) has contributed to the growth and development of Islam in Ogbona. Prominent Muslims: Many individuals, including HRH Alhaji Aliyu Ajayi Oboarekpe, Alhaji Alidu, Imam Momodu Dunia, and others, have played significant roles in spreading and developing Islam in Ogbona. The research work highlights the importance of education, community leadership, and individual dedication in promoting Islam and shaping the community’s Islamic identity. It also demonstrates the resilience and perseverance of the Muslim community in Ogbona, who have overcome challenges and obstacles to build a thriving and vibrant Islamic community. (A Research Work by Mallam Pius Etokhana Abdulmalik) Introduction In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. This historical account meticulously chronicles the arrival and growth of Islam in Ogbona, a community nestled within the Avhianwu Kingdom of Edo State, Nigeria. Compiled with the invaluable contributions of numerous Ogbona Muslims, this work seeks to preserve the legacy of faith passed down through generations. The success of our predecessors in establishing and sustaining Islam in this region is a testament not only to their dedication but also to the enduring grace and guidance of Allah. Abstract Ogbona, located in the Etsako Central Local Government Area, witnessed the introduction of Islam in the early 20th century by preachers from Northern Nigeria. The nascent Muslim community faced significant hurdles, including instances of apostasy stemming from a lack of foundational Islamic knowledge, the perception of Islam as a foreign entity, and the strong pull of traditional religious practices. The key to overcoming these challenges lies in comprehensive Islamic education for all, regardless of age or gender. The Genesis of Islam in Ogbona The story of Islam in Ogbona begins in the early 1900s. Spreading the message of Islam proved difficult due to the deeply rooted traditional beliefs held by the Ogbona people. Undeterred, preachers from the North traversed Afemai land, bringing the tenets of Islam with them. Among the first converts in Ogbona were individuals like Otuaye (Umoru) Oboarekpe, Ikhagu, Idode (Idris), Oyagha, and Brai Okozi. However, these early Muslims grappled with a limited understanding of Islamic principles, largely due to language barriers. The inability of the Northern preachers to communicate effectively in Etsako, and vice versa, led to a blend of Islamic and traditional practices. Around 1923, recognizing this issue, the Otaru of Auchi (Otaru I) sent Mallam Madogu Otsu from Igbe Auchi to Ogbona to provide structured Islamic instruction. This led to the establishment of a central place for prayer. Driven by a thirst for knowledge, Brai Ikhaghu and Amedu Azama even relocated their families to Kano in pursuit of deeper Islamic learning. Tragically, they both passed away during this endeavor, leading to their families returning to Ogbona with the assistance of Alhaji Musa Adima, the Chief Imam of Uzairue. Their deaths had a discouraging effect, and some people reverted to traditional religions. Adding to the rising increase of Islam in Ogbona, there was a period where children were dying from an unknown ailments. The Muslim community, including Alhaji Alidu, Alhaji Momodu Dunia, Brai Okozi, Ahmad, and Idode, sought spiritual aid by inviting Mallams from Auchi to pray for the community. They recited verses of the Qur’an over water, which was offered to children and women to drink. By Allah’s mercy, they were cured. This miracle encouraged many more people to embrace Islam. The Pivotal Role of a Yoruba Scholar The early 1970s marked a turning point with the arrival of a Yoruba scholar, reverently known as “Alfa,” (a traditional title of respect for Islamic scholars) to Ogbona. He came with a dual mission: to propagate Islam and to provide treatment for individuals with eye ailments. Alfa’s presence galvanized the community. Key Figures in the Advancement of Islam Alfa’s efforts inspired a significant wave of conversions. Prominent figures who played a vital role in this growth included: Seidu Anabor, Mustapha Imhana (Mulla), Seidu Eruakhor and Alhaji Suleiman Oyarekhua These individuals were steadfast in their faith. Their dedication laid a foundation for future generations, and their children continue to champion Islam in Ogbona and beyond. A Lasting Legacy The impact of Alfa’s mission and the pioneering spirit of these early Muslims has been profound, shaping the Islamic identity of Ogbona. Later, five young Muslim children were sent to North Ibie to study Islam. Among them was Alhaji Momodu Dunia, who later became the first Chief Imam of Ogbona. Alhaji Momodu Dunia: The First Chief Imam of Ogbona By 1973, the burgeoning Muslim community in Ogbona was ready to establish its first Jumu’ah (Friday) service. Alhaji Momodu Dunia, along with dedicated individuals like Seidu Anabor, Seidu Eruakhor, Alhaji Aminu Isunevho, Alhaji Suleman Oyarekhua, Haruna Apemeye, Akhigbe Obos, Yahaya Akhigbe, and Suleman Odogbo, spearheaded this initiative. His notable achievements included: l Mandating Islamic education for all Muslim children, with non-compliance leading to exclusion from community religious events. Successfully