Ogun Chief Imam Explains Guidelines for Worshippers in Mosques

The Chief Imam of Ijebuland, Alhaji Miftaudeen Ayanbadejo, recently clarified a guideline that discourages men from wearing plaited hair and earrings during mosque prayers. This announcement was made during Friday prayers at the Ijebu Ode Central Mosque on October 9, 2026.

The Imam’s office stated that the guideline is not meant to punish anyone but to maintain the dignity and respect of mosques. The aim is to encourage modest dressing, cleanliness, and proper behavior among worshippers.

Dr. Oyekolade Oyesanya, the Head of Corporate Media and Public Communications for the Imam’s office, explained that the guideline was shared on behalf of the Chief Imam-in-Council. He emphasized that the mosque is a sacred place for worship and should be treated with reverence.

Oyesanya noted that the guideline addresses concerns about inappropriate dressing, the wearing of earrings by men, certain hairstyles like dreadlocks, tattoos, and distractions such as mobile phones during prayers. He stressed that the goal is to promote reflection and adherence to Islamic standards, not to exclude anyone from worship.

The Chief Imam called on all worshippers to understand the guideline in its intended spirit. He encouraged them to dress modestly, maintain respect during services, and follow the mosque’s rules. The Imam reassured that the mosque remains open to all Muslims seeking to worship.

Ultimately, the Imam hopes to foster a community characterized by faith, humility, and respect for Islamic teachings, making the mosque a place for spiritual growth and moral development.