Isese association warns against fanning discord among Yoruba traditional institutions
By Adejayan Gbenga
The Isese Religious Association in Oyo State has cautioned members of the public, particularly bloggers and social media users, against inflammatory statements and actions capable of creating tension among traditional institutions in Yorubaland.
The warning was contained in a statement issued by Bode Durojaiye, director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I. According to the statement, the Chairman of the Isese Worshippers Committee and Asiwaju Ask of Oyo, Chief Onifade Olanipekun, gave the warning on Friday during a press briefing at the Alaafin’s palace in Oyo town.
Olanipekun said Yoruba traditional rulers and institutions were vital to the people’s history, identity, customs and collective heritage, adding that they deserved respect, responsible public engagement and constructive dialogue, even when disagreements arose.
He warned that unverified allegations, provocative publications and the actions of a few individuals could create unnecessary divisions among Yoruba people. He therefore urged the public to recognise the preservation of unity across Yorubaland as a collective responsibility and refrain from statements capable of escalating tensions.
The association also rejected allegations circulating on social media that the Isese community had failed to support the Alaafin’s throne. Speaking on behalf of the Isese community and Sàngó worshippers in Oyo, Olanipekun described the claims as misleading and reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the dignity of Oba Owoade’s throne and preserving the cultural heritage of the Oyo Kingdom.
He maintained that the community’s support for the Alaafin predated the current controversy and had remained firm since the monarch’s installation. According to him, genuine commitment to traditional institutions should be demonstrated through cultural preservation, peaceful advocacy, responsible conduct and constructive engagement rather than confrontations on social media.
Olanipekun further warned against using the name of the Isese religion to insult traditional rulers, incite division or undermine Yoruba cultural institutions. He urged adherents, bloggers and other members of the public to distinguish individual opinions from the association’s official position and exercise restraint when discussing the Alaafin and other traditional rulers.
Also speaking, the Director of Administration to the Alaafin, Prince Adesola Sanda, who represented Oba Owoade, called for unity, understanding and mutual respect among traditional religious associations. He highlighted the Omoluabi philosophy, which promotes good character, integrity, truthfulness, hospitality and respect for elders, stressing that traditional conflict-resolution mechanisms remained essential to maintaining peace and preserving Yoruba cultural heritage.
