Concerns As Ifa, Eid Festivals Clash In Ile-Ife On Same Day
Tension is mounting in the ancient city of Ile-Ife, Osun State, as the Annual World Ifa Festival and the Islamic Eid-el-Kabir celebration are slated to hold on the same day, raising fears of possible religious unrest.
The World Institute for Peace, a civil organisation, has written to security agencies in the state, calling for immediate intervention to avert a potential crisis.
The letter, signed by the organisation’s Executive Director, Lamina Kamiludeen Omotoyosi, was addressed to the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Umar Abba, and copied to Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Omotoyosi warned that the simultaneous observance of the two major religious events on June 6, 2025, posed a significant security threat, given the large numbers of adherents expected to converge in key locations across Ile-Ife.
He specifically noted that the Ifa temple is located near the Central Mosque in the town, where thousands of Muslims are expected to gather for Eid prayers and the regular Friday Jumaat service.
“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,” the letter read in part.
“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.”
The civil group advised the state police command to coordinate with other security agencies, including the DSS and NSCDC, to implement a comprehensive security framework that would ensure peace during the festivities.
It also called for dialogue between religious leaders, including the Chief Imams of Osogbo and Ile-Ife and traditional heads in the town.
The organisation emphasised the importance of involving the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, in peace-building efforts.
“His engagement and leadership are critical at this time,” Omotoyosi added, urging security chiefs to consult with the monarch.
The fears expressed by the peace advocacy group are not unfounded. On January 20 this year, a violent incident was reported in Ile-Ife during a traditional procession.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
