The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has called on the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Eniitan Ogunwusi and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, to sheathe their swords over the ongoing supremacy tussle between them.
In a communique marking the 2025 Isese Day celebration, the council’s president, Dr. Fayemi Fakayode, pleaded for harmony, which they claimed would fast-track development in the Yoruba land.
“As we mark this year’s Ìsẹ̀ṣe Festival, we extend our warmest felicitations to our revered traditional rulers.
“May they be endowed with robust health and longevity. We express our deepest gratitude to those monarchs who have remained unwavering custodians of our cultural traditions. We respectfully advise those who have embraced foreign cultures to reconnect with their heritage.
“To propel our land towards development, progress, and unity, we enjoin our traditional rulers to foster collaboration and mutual understanding.
“Our special appeal goes to Imperial Majesties Alayeluwa Ọba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Oonirisa, and Alayeluwa Oba Abimbola Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo, to continue their noble endeavours in harmony for the betterment of our people,” they prayed.
The council called on President Bola Tinubu to recognise Isese adherents in Nigeria as equals to their Muslim and Christian counterparts by declaring August 20th and 21st public holidays.
ICIR hinted that the Presidency should rise above the present state of inequality among the three major religions in Nigeria by declaring a public holiday in recognition of Isese practitioners.
The council called on the governors of Ekiti, Ondo, Kwara, Kogi, Edo, and Delta States to emulate their colleagues from Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Osun States by declaring every 20th of August an Isese holiday in their respective states.
