EXPLAINER: From Raphael to AbdulRahman – How Oyo Ex Commissioner, Prof. Afonja Accepts Islam.

By Bukola Hameed

The chief Imaam of Ogbomosoland, Sheikh Talha Yunus Ayilara II has revealed how Oyo Ex Commissioner for Works and Transport, Prof. Raphael Afonja accepted Islam.

The Ogbomoso-born Professor at the Department of Physical Sciences, City University of New York pronounced the statement of entering into the fold of Islam on Thursday 10 March, 2022 at the hands of Sheikh Imaam Talha.

In a chart with Imaam Talha by our correspondent, he explained that Professor Afonja accepted Islam because of his inclination towards the truth, and his inherent love for the religion.

Sheikh Talha said, “Firstly, I met him (Prof. Afonja) in December 2021 when he invited me for a special prayer for his deceased mother at his residence in Ogbomoso. I seized the opportunity to present the beauty of Islam to him and obviously he was marvelled.

In addition, one his aides informed me that Prof. has had interest in the practice of Islam from time immemorial but was waiting for an opportunity to exhibit his interest which he saw in my presentation.

I therefore, advise him to remain steadfast as he learns the new and best way of life”, he concluded.

The Imaam explained that Professor Afonja embraced the religion of Islam on Thursday 10th March, 2022, and observed Jumah prayer on Friday 11th March, 2022. He had also adopted AbdulRahman as his Muslim name.

Prof. Raphael Afonja, Ph.D., R.Engr.(COREN), CESCO, CEP, REP, M.NSE., M.ASCE was born to the family of Dr. and Mrs Afonja of Adesiyan Compound, Isale Afon, Ogbomoso.

He grew up in Kaduna where he attended Hope Primary School before attending Barewa College, Zaria, and Unity School Ejigbo, Osun State.