Ifa Council urges Alaafin, Ooni to end dispute, calls for Isese national holiday
By Adejayan Gbenga –
The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has appealed to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, to resolve their lingering seniority dispute in the interest of peace and development in Yorubaland.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued during the 2025 Isese Day celebrations on Wednesday, signed by ICIR President, Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode.
Dr. Fakayode congratulated the monarchs and other traditional rulers for preserving cultural values, while urging greater collaboration to strengthen unity and progress.
“Our special appeal goes to Their Imperial Majesties, the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo, to continue their noble endeavours in harmony for the betterment of our people,” he stated.
The council also urged President Bola Tinubu to recognise Isese adherents by declaring August 20 and 21 as national public holidays, similar to existing observances for Muslims and Christians.
It further encouraged the governors of Ekiti, Ondo, Kwara, Kogi, Edo, and Delta States to emulate Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Osun, which already recognise August 20 as Isese Day.
ICIR stressed that granting such recognition would uphold cultural diversity, promote inclusiveness, and strengthen national unity. It also called for more government funding for cultural festivals, protection of sacred lands, and inclusion of traditional religion adherents in national cultural councils.
“Isese represents the foundation of Yoruba and African identity; it embodies morality, unity, reverence for nature, and communal living,” the communiqué read. “Celebrating it safeguards our heritage, promotes pride in our culture, and strengthens enduring values such as honesty, respect, and hard work.”
