With two major religious events set to hold on the same day in Ile-Ife, the World Institute of Peace (WIP) has urged Osun State security agencies to act fast to prevent a possible clash.
The group, led by Executive Director Lamina Kamiludeen Omotoyosi, made this call in an open letter to the Osun State Police Commissioner, Mohammed Umar Abba. The warning follows the announcement that the Annual World Ifa Festival and Eid El Kabir will both take place on June 6, 2025.
The letter, also copied to Governor Ademola Adeleke, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Osun DSS Director, and NSCDC Commandant, raised alarms over the high number of people expected to gather for both events.
Omotoyosi noted: “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, which is a day of great importance for the Muslim community. 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.”
He stressed the need for proactive intervention, saying both religious groups would gather in their thousands and that the situation could spiral if left unchecked.
“Given the historical context of tensions between traditional worshippers and Muslims in the area, it is imperative that we take proactive measures to prevent any potential crisis. Take note that as Muslims will be in their thousands, so also the traditionalists will gather in thousands, the same day.”
WIP called on the police to lead a coordinated effort with all security outfits to forestall any crisis.
“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.”
Omotoyosi also proposed an interfaith dialogue. He suggested gathering the Grand Chief Imam of Osogbo, the Chief Imam of Ile-Ife, and traditional leaders to ease tension and promote understanding.
He also called for the involvement of Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, describing his role as central to keeping the peace in the town.
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“Furthermore, I suggest convening a meeting with key community leaders, including the Grand Chief Imam of Osogbo, who is the head of the League of Imams and Alfas in Osun State, the Chief Imam of Ile-Ife, and the head of traditional worshippers in Osun State and Ile-Ife. This dialogue will be crucial in fostering understanding and cooperation among the different religious groups, thereby mitigating the risk of conflict.”
Omotoyosi’s fears are not without reason. On January 20, 2025, violence erupted during an Isese festival procession in Ile-Ife. At least six people were injured when the group was attacked by suspected Muslim youths.
A key traditionalist, Oba Alamon Obatala, said the group had made several radio announcements about the procession, urging residents to avoid the route.
But attackers struck as they passed through Idio Market and Moore area.
Obatala blamed Muslims for the attack, citing previous threats dating back to 2022.
But Ojulowo Omo Yoruba TV, a Yoruba blogger and Muslim, denied the claims. He challenged the worshippers to provide proof, saying no evidence was ever submitted.
With tensions still simmering from that incident, WIP’s warning comes at a crucial time.
All eyes are now on security agencies and religious leaders to prevent another round of violence.