Obong Declares Calabar as Home to Ahmadiyya
The Amir (National Head) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Alhaji (Barrister) Alatoye Folorunso Azeez on Thursday 16th October, 2025 paid a courtesy call on the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V at his Palace in Calabar, Cross River State.
In his remarks, the Amir said he is in Calabar to express the Jamaat profound appreciation to the King for his love for the Jamaat and commended the Obong for his exemplary leadership, describing him as a revered traditional ruler who continues to lead with the fear of God, commitment to service, and promotion of peaceful coexistence among adherents of different faiths. He expressed profound gratitude for the consistent support the Obong and the Palace has extended to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for many decades in Calabar and beyond.
Alhaji Alatoye emphasized that Islam stands for peace, compassion, and justice, adding that any form of extremism or violence does not represent the true teachings of Islam. He further highlighted the global efforts of the Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (May Allah be his Helper), who continues to engage world leaders in advocating peace and promoting understanding among nations.
Responding, the Obong warmly welcomed the Amir and his entourage to the ancient city of Calabar. He commended the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for its peaceful propagation of Islam and notable humanitarian contributions to the development of society. The Obong proudly declared that “Calabar is home to Ahmadiyya,” reaffirming the community’s deep-rooted presence and positive impact in the state.
He noted that the visit came at an auspicious time when Calabar is witnessing the return of its sons and daughters from the diaspora, many of whom are reconnecting with their ancestral roots for the first time. The Obong assured the delegation of his continued commitment to fostering peace, unity, and religious harmony, stressing that all human beings originate from one Creator and must therefore live together in love and understanding.
On the entourage of the Respected Amir Sahib are the Respected Missionary Incharge Maulvi Adnan Tahir, Naib Amir Taleem Tarbiyya, Alhaji Lateef Folorunsho, the General Secretary, Alhaji Jabar Ayelagbe, President of the Ahmadiyya Nigeria Qadha Board, Professor AbdulMajeed Hassan Bello, Calabar Circuit President Engr. Musa Kazeem, Central Missionary Calabar, Maulvi AbdulHafeez Akere, Nazim A’la MAAN, MKAN Qaid and other members of the Jamaat.
