Osun Government Cautions Oluwo Of Iwo Over Alleged Inflammatory Religious Statements

The Osun State Government has cautioned the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, over alleged inflammatory statements said to be capable of triggering religious confrontations and inter-town conflicts.

The government expressed concern that recent public comments attributed to the monarch could heighten communal tensions and threaten peaceful coexistence in Iwo and other parts of the state.

The caution was conveyed in a letter signed by Mr Wale Alliyu on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

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Government Raises Concern Over Religious Tensions

In the letter, the state government said it had observed with concern widely publicised statements attributed to the traditional ruler.

It alleged that the monarch’s activities were heightening communal tensions, sowing seeds of religious and communal discord, and undermining traditional values.

The government described the alleged statements as a potential threat to peace, unity and stability in Osun State, particularly in Iwo land.

According to the ministry, the persistence of conduct capable of provoking crises and undermining peaceful interfaith coexistence had reached a point that required official intervention.

Oluwo Reminded Of Responsibility As Traditional Ruler

The ministry stressed that the Oluwo, as a traditional ruler, was expected to respect the rights of his subjects to hold and practise their religious beliefs.

It noted that traditional institutions had an important responsibility to promote harmony among residents and prevent actions that could deepen religious or communal divisions.

The government’s position underscores its concern about the potential consequences of public statements by traditional rulers in communities with diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.

State Council Of Obas To Monitor Developments

The ministry said it would monitor the monarch’s compliance with the cautionary directives.

It also disclosed that the State Council of Obas had been directed to monitor and respond to recent developments in Iwo.

The government did not disclose any further sanctions against the monarch in the letter, but its warning signals concern over the possible impact of the alleged statements on peace and interfaith relations in the state.