Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence among various religious followers, cautioning against religious confrontations. This statement comes in response to the recent disagreements between Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi Telu 1, the Oluwo of Iwoland, and an association of traditional religion adherents concerning the celebration of the yearly Isese Festival.
In an attempt to mediate the situation, the Governor dispatched his Special Adviser on Security, Mr. Samuel Ojo, to Iwo town for an immediate engagement with both parties. Mr. Ojo met with several stakeholders and communicated with the Oluwo, who was not in town at that time.
Subsequent discussions were held with some traditionalists who had expressed their determination to gather at Iwoland to contradict the traditional ruler, who was accused of banning them from his territory.
In a statement released by Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Governor’s Spokesperson, the Security Adviser was quoted saying that he acted on the Governor’s directive. The Oluwo pledged to maintain peace and security. The Security Adviser insisted on the necessity of peaceful coexistence and warned that any group attempting to disturb the peace would face security forces.
All required security measures have been taken, and traditionalists are at liberty to exercise their constitutional rights, provided they adhere to the laws. The Governor also marked Monday 21st as a public holiday to mark the 2023 Isese Day Festival.
SOURCE: Leadership
IMAGE: Head Topics
