The Osun State Government has warned the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, over his recent public statements that could spark religious and inter-town conflicts. In a letter dated November, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs expressed concerns that the monarch's alleged conduct could undermine communal peace and coexistence among people of different faiths. The government observed with "worries and anxieties" the monarch's recent inflammatory statements and pronouncements.
The Oluwo's Spokesperson, Alli Ibrahim, confirmed that the monarch had received the government's letter. The letter, signed by the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Wale Alli¬yu, outlined six directives to the monarch. These include stopping further attacks on people of other faiths and refraining from making statements or engaging in conduct that could provoke confrontation with other traditional rulers.
The Osun State government emphasized that it would not tolerate any development that could create community violence and conflict. The ministry said it would monitor the monarch's compliance with the directives, while the State Council of Obas was also directed to "watch and act on recent developments within Iwo land." This move aims to maintain peace and stability in the state.
In response, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi declared that Governor Ademola Adeleke's administration could not sack him from his throne. The Oluwo said nobody has the power to remove him for taking a stand on his aversion to traditional worship and other fetish activities. He made this statement in a video circulating on social media.
In the video, the monarch addressed a large crowd at his palace in Iwo, asserting that no one, including the governor, could remove him from the throne. The Oluwo removed his glasses and said, "Look at my face; nobody can remove me as a king." This statement has sparked concerns about potential conflicts in the state.
The Osun State Government's warning to the Oluwo of Iwo highlights the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the state. The government's move aims to prevent any potential conflicts that could arise from the monarch's statements. The State Council of Obas' involvement in monitoring the situation also underscores the significance of this issue.
The situation remains tense, with the Oluwo of Iwo standing firm on his stance. The government's directives and monitoring efforts will likely determine the outcome of this situation. The people of Osun State are watching closely, hoping that peace and stability will prevail.
Key points
- The Osun State Government has warned the Oluwo of Iwo over his inflammatory remarks that could trigger religious and communal conflicts.
- The government has outlined six directives to the monarch, including stopping attacks on people of other faiths and refraining from making provocative statements.
- The Oluwo of Iwo has asserted that nobody can remove him from his throne, sparking concerns about potential conflicts in the state.
