Monarch seals church over Osun-Osogbo grove invasion, declares founder wanted
By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –
The palace of the Olojudo of Ido-Osun in Egbedore Local Government Area of Osun State has ordered the immediate and indefinite sealing of the God of White Calling for All Souls Ministries Central Headquarters over actions linked to the controversial invasion of the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove.
The move follows outrage over the alleged involvement of the church’s pastors in entering the revered grove and desecrating the cultural and spiritual site, a development that has stirred reactions among traditional worshippers.
The Olojudo of Ido-Osun, in a statement issued by the Eesa of Ido-Osun, High Chief Basiru Oyewale, said efforts by palace representatives to invite the church leadership for questioning proved abortive, as the pastor was not found and subsequent attempts to reach him failed.
The palace noted that the situation could degenerate into a wider religious crisis if not urgently contained, describing the tension as unprecedented in the kingdom.
Consequently, the traditional ruler of the community, Oba Olayinka Jokotola, ordered the sealing of the church premises.
The founder of the church was also declared wanted by palace authorities.
The statement added that the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ido-Osun chapter, has disowned the pastor, clarifying that he is not a registered member of the association.
