Ife Isoro/Islamic crisis: Adherents broker peace, preach love

By Sunday Oguntuyi, Osogbo

Following the crisis that brew between the oro worshippers and Muslims in Ile Ile, Osun State, leaders of the two camps have called for ceasefire and urged security agencies to investigate the incident.

Speaking at a press conference at the Obatala temple, AROLE OBATALA , Olaolu Dada blamed the violence on some suspected intruders unleashing mayhem under religious guise,

Oba Dada noted that Ife community is known for peace and religious tolerance, saying the religion leaders should preach love and perseverance.

It would be recall that four Muslims in Ilare Idiomoh mosque were reportedly injured when the traditional religion worshippers attacked them in a mosque in Ile-Ife on Thursday.

The ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi through the Obalufe, Oba Idowu Adediwura, had called for calm and tolerance with a promise to renovate the damaged mosque and foot the victim’s hospital bills.

The incident also saw muslim faithful protest on Friday demanding justice.

Oba Dada expressed dissatisfaction over the entire issue and want the government to bring the perpetrators to book.

He explained that Ife is a sacred city initiated with sacrifice and rituals, but has lived harmoniously with other believers since ancient times.

Also speaking at the press conference, Alhaji sikiru balogun, the chairman ife muslim community, related the cause of the issue to religious hostility and harped on the reorientation of people government and other stakeholders.

He stressed that Muslims are accommodating but were frustrated that several mosques were thereafter destroyed.