The World Institute for Peace has called on the Osun State Police Command to bolster security in Ile-Ife ahead of the Ifa Festival and Eid-el-Kabir celebrations scheduled for June 6, 2025.
In an open letter addressed to the state’s Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Abba, the institute’s Executive Director, Lamina Omotoyosi, raised concerns about potential religious tensions. He pointed to previous incidents involving clashes between traditional worshippers and Muslims during similar events.
Omotoyosi noted that the two festivals are set to take place on the same day and warned that the closeness of the Ifa Temple to the Ile-Ife Central Mosque, where a large Muslim gathering is expected for Friday prayers, could increase the risk of conflict.
The letter was also sent to Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer, Adejobi Olumuyiwa, and heads of other key security agencies in the state, including the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Amotekun Corps.
Titled Urgent call for enhanced security measures during upcoming religious festivals in Ile-Ife: A stitch in time saves nine, the letter proposed a series of proactive steps to prevent unrest. These included joint security efforts, stakeholder meetings, and engagement with religious and community leaders.
Omotoyosi urged the state to convene a peace dialogue involving the Chief Imam of Ile-Ife, the Grand Chief Imam of Osogbo, and leaders of traditional worshippers. He also stressed the importance of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II, playing a key role in promoting peace during the celebrations.
“Given the historical context of tensions between traditional worshippers and Muslims in the area, it is imperative to implement maximum security measures to ensure the safety and peace of all residents and participants during these significant events,” the letter stated.
He further called for a joint effort by security agencies, including the DSS, the NSCDC, and other paramilitary organisations, to create a robust security framework.
The institute expressed hope that swift and coordinated action would be taken to ensure a peaceful celebration. “This letter serves as an open appeal for prompt action, reflecting our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community,” Omotoyosi added.
5
