ICIR Urges Oluwo to Stops Negative Comments on Isese Religion, Calls for Peace in Iseyin
The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has urged the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrashed Akanbi, to stop making disparaging remarks about the Isese religion and Yoruba traditions. They have also called on the Osun State government, Yoruba elders, and all Yoruba socio-cultural organizations to intervene and address the monarch’s statements.
Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode, President of ICIR, made this appeal during the inauguration of the new executive committee of the Council at the World Ifa Temple in Oke-Itase, Ile-Ife, Osun State. He emphasized that Oba Abdulrashed Akanbi’s comments have repeatedly caused religious discord and embarrassment among other traditional leaders who uphold Yoruba culture both within the Yoruba kingdom and abroad.
“We urge those inciting religious discord to desist and advise the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrashed Akanbi, to refrain from making offensive statements against Yoruba tradition, culture, and religion. We call on the government, particularly Osun State, as well as Yoruba socio-cultural organizations and elders, to address the monarch’s behavior to prevent further issues,” stated Fayemi.
Dr. Fakayode also addressed the recent conflict in Iseyin between the Muslim and Christian communities, where a Pastor allegedly assaulted an Alfa during the attempt to slaughter a ram on Eid al-Fitr (Ileya) day. He appealed for calm and urged all religious practitioners to live harmoniously and focus on commonalities rather than differences.
“In the interest of peace, we ask Muslims and Christians in Iseyin to allow peace to reign,” he added.
Dr. Fakayode encouraged the newly formed executive committee to use their positions to contribute to world peace and human progress. He highlighted the challenges currently facing Yoruba land, its traditions, and religion, and stressed the importance of Ifa adherents standing firm as true custodians of Yoruba culture and religion.
