Cleric, traditional ruler urge unity to prevent communal clashes in Osun

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

Amid ongoing communal tensions, Islamic cleric Sanusi Amidu has emphasized the importance of unity in fostering peace and development among communities.

Speaking during a Ramadan lecture in Kajola Community, Ede, Amidu warned that disunity breeds conflict, citing recent crises in Ifon, Erin-Osun, and Ilobu communities as examples. He urged Kajola residents to embrace patience, tolerance, and mutual understanding to prevent similar unrest.

“When there is no unity, peace cannot reign. People begin to see each other as enemies, and this leads to crisis. What is happening in Ifon, Erin-Osun, and Ilobu should serve as a lesson. Instead of division, neighboring communities should work together to ensure peace,” he said.

Amidu also reminded Muslims that faith should not be seasonal, urging them to maintain their devotion to Salat and Quran recitation beyond Ramadan.

Echoing the cleric’s message, the Baale of Kajola, Chief Yinusa Kabiru, encouraged community members to resolve disputes with wisdom, patience, and fairness. He cautioned against allowing emotions to dictate responses to conflicts, emphasizing the need for thoughtful and peaceful resolutions.

“When issues arise in the community, we should not let emotions drive our actions. Instead, we must take a step back, weigh the facts carefully, and seek peaceful resolutions. A divided community cannot prosper, and as leaders, we have a duty to promote understanding rather than division,” he stated.

The Asiwaju of Kajola, Ayobami Agboola, who chaired the occasion, also stressed the significance of unity for peaceful coexistence. He called on traditional rulers in conflict-prone communities to prioritize reconciliation, warning that bloodshed only deepens divisions.

Agboola urged leaders to foster dialogue and understanding, ensuring that disputes are resolved amicably to promote lasting peace among communities.