Tensions are escalating in Ilorin, Kwara State, as an Islamic group and certain traditionalists clash over the upcoming celebration of a festival.
According to reports, the Majlisu Shabab li Ulamahu Society, a Muslim group in Ilorin, took action by visiting the home of a traditional religion priestess to advise her against organizing an upcoming Isese festival. The festival was scheduled to take place in five local government areas that are part of the Ilorin Emirate in the state capital.
Isese, the Yoruba term representing tradition, is employed to describe various festivals celebrated by followers of the Yoruba traditional religion in countries such as Nigeria, Cuba, Brazil, the United States, Benin, and others.
The Islamic sect stated that the Isese festival should not be held in Ilorin West, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, Moro, and Asa.
The protest group, who brought their demonstration to the residence of Adesikemi Olatunji, a known worshiper of Osun, issued a warning to the young woman, stating that they were sent by Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the Emir of Ilorin.
On Monday, a viral video was posted on Facebook by Arowolo Abdulfatai, also known as Sheikh Abdul Fathai Arowolo. The video showed members of a group from the Oke Adini area in Ilorin, expressing their visit’s reason, which was prompted by reports of an upcoming traditional festival called Isese, organized by the priestess.
Yeye Adesikemi Olokun Omolara Olatunji, an Osun devotee and priestess, was said to have distributed flyers to announce a three-day traditional gathering devoted to celebrating specific Yoruba deities.
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