The World Institute of Peace (WIP) has issued an urgent appeal to security agencies in Osun State to prevent potential religious unrest in Ile-Ife ahead of two major religious events scheduled for June 6, 2025.
In an open letter addressed to Osun State Police Commissioner Mohammed Umar Abba, WIP Executive Director Lamina Kamiludeen Omotoyosi expressed serious concerns over the coinciding dates of the Annual World Ifa Festival and the Eid El Kabir celebrations.
The letter, which was also copied to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and heads of other security agencies, highlighted the risk of conflict as both events are expected to draw large crowds in close proximity.
"It has come to my attention that the Annual World Ifa Festival and Pilgrimage will take place on the same day as the Eid El Kabir celebrations," Omotoyosi stated. "This overlap is particularly concerning as the temple of the Ifa Festival is located in close proximity to the Ile-Ife Central Mosque, where a large congregation of Muslims will also gather for Jumaat prayers the same day."
Historical Tensions Raise Concerns
The WIP Director emphasized that both religious groups would assemble in the thousands, creating a volatile situation given the history of tensions between traditional worshippers and Muslims in the area.
Earlier this year, on January 20, 2025, a traditional festival in Ile-Ife turned violent when Isese worshippers were reportedly attacked by suspected Muslims, resulting in six injuries, including a woman who was severely hurt.
At that time, Oba Alamon Obatala, a prominent Isese worshipper, claimed that despite prior announcements warning people to stay away from the procession route, the worshippers were attacked with stones as they passed through the Idio Market and Moore area of Ile-Ife.
Call for Coordinated Security Response
To prevent a repeat of past disturbances, Omotoyosi urged the police to coordinate with multiple security agencies to create a comprehensive security plan for the day.
"I recommend that you collaborate with the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other relevant civilian security outfits/paramilitary organizations to create a comprehensive security plan for the day," he advised.
The WIP also called for an interfaith meeting between prominent religious leaders, including the Grand Chief Imam of Osogbo, the Chief Imam of Ile-Ife, and traditional heads in the town, which would be crucial in fostering understanding and cooperation amongst the different religious groups.
Omotoyosi highlighted the essential role of the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, in promoting peace and urged the Osun Commissioner of Police to engage with him to discuss the urgent matter and seek his support in promoting harmony in Ile-Ife and its surroundings.
As of the time of this report, there has been no official response from the security agencies regarding the measures to be implemented ahead of the potentially volatile situation.
