Traditional worshippers under the Isese Religious Association in Oyo town have called for peace, mutual respect and the protection of Yoruba cultural heritage amid concerns over allegations and public statements that could create tension within traditional institutions.
Drivetvnews gathered that the association also warned bloggers and traditionalists against spreading unverified claims and inflammatory publications concerning the Alaafin of Oyo and other traditional rulers.
The Chairman of the Isese Worshippers Committee and Asiwaju Awo of Oyo, Chief Onifade Olanipekun, made the appeal during a press briefing at the Alaafin’s palace on Friday.
Olanipekun said traditional institutions represented important aspects of Yoruba history, identity, customs and collective heritage, stressing that they deserved respect and responsible public engagement even when disagreements arose.
He warned that unverified allegations and provocative publications could create unnecessary divisions among Yoruba people and their traditional institutions.
The association also described an allegation concerning the relationship between the Isese community and the Alaafin’s institution as misleading and a misrepresentation of its position.
Olanipekun reaffirmed the association’s support for the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, explaining that its commitment to the throne predated the monarch’s installation and was rooted in respect for Yoruba ancestors, spiritual heritage and traditional values.
He said the Alaafin’s throne held significant historical and spiritual importance and that preserving its legacy was essential to protecting the history and identity of Oyo Kingdom for future generations.
The chairman urged traditionalists to distinguish between the personal conduct and statements of individuals and the official position of the wider Isese community.
He further advised traditional worshippers, regardless of their location, to exercise restraint when commenting on the Alaafin, other traditional rulers and Yoruba cultural institutions.
According to him, promoting Isese requires knowledge, integrity, responsibility and respect for collective heritage, adding that no individual should use the religion’s name to create hostility or misrepresent the community’s position.
Earlier, the Alaafin’s Director of Administration, Prince Adesola Sanda, who represented the monarch, appealed for unity and mutual understanding among traditional religious associations.
Sanda noted that the Isese philosophy emphasised Omoluabi, a Yoruba concept associated with good character, integrity and respect. He added that traditional religious associations helped promote these values through respect for elders and ancestral lineage.
