By Dosu Deborah Oluwatimilehin (SIWES student, Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic Eruwa)
Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy’s ascension to the esteemed position of the 14th Baba Adinni of Lagos was the outcome of a carefully conducted election on Wednesday, December 21, 2022, at the Lagos Central Mosque in Idumota.
Supervised by representatives from the Lagos State Government, the Ministry of Home Affairs and Culture, and various governmental bodies, the election reflected the trust and confidence of the Lagos Muslim community in Alabi-Macfoy’s profound grasp of the city’s heritage and ethos.
As the Vice Chairman of the Lagos Central Mosque, Alhaji Sikiru Alabi-Macfoy, assumes the role of the 14th Baba Adinni, signifying his spiritual leadership and revered status within the city.
The election, attended by government officials, community leaders, and religious figures, marked a significant moment for the Muslim community, recognizing the honor and responsibility associated with the position.
Among the candidates vying for the role, Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy and Alhaji Jelili Animashaun, Chairman/CEO of Al-Hujjaj International Hajj and Umrah Services Ltd., participated in the screening process.
Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy’s election, coupled with the absence of the third candidate, underscored the community’s confidence in his leadership abilities.
The meticulous screening and election process, overseen by a 30-member committee chaired by Alhaji Fatai Dawodu, included thorough questioning to assess the candidates’ Islamic knowledge, historical insights, and leadership acumen.
Following deliberations, Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy secured the majority vote, heralding his appointment as the 14th Baba Adinni of the Lagos Central Mosque.
The community’s jubilation upon Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy’s appointment was palpable, accompanied by a sermon emphasizing the significance of his new role.
In his acceptance speech, Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy pledged to serve with honesty, integrity, and humility, acknowledging the trust bestowed upon him by the committee members.
The subsequent reception marked a moment of camaraderie, as the community expressed their congratulations and support for the new Baba Adinni.
Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy articulated his commitment to address the community’s needs and uphold the legacy of his predecessor, the late Sheikh Sani Olawale Abubakr.
In his capacity as Baba Adinni, Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy will assume multifaceted responsibilities, including spiritual guidance, community engagement, and advocacy for Islamic values.
His tenure promises to be transformative, as he navigates challenges and fosters unity within the Muslim community of Lagos, embodying the principles of wisdom, strength, and compassion.
