The political and religious tension in Osun State has taken another dramatic turn following a strong warning by Sheikh Daood Imran Molaasan, leader of the Ta’awunu Human Rights Initiative (THURIST), who has threatened a massive protest in Osogbo if the state government issues another warning to the Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, over his comments on idolatry.
The cleric reportedly declared that his supporters would mobilise and occupy Osogbo, the Osun State capital, until a state of emergency is declared if the government takes further action against the traditional ruler.
According to reports published by The PUNCH on November 15, 2026, Molaasan made the declaration during a sermon delivered at a Friday Jumu’ah service. The video of his address was subsequently shared on social media. He reportedly warned that protesters would ensure that no vehicle moved within Osogbo and that the occupation could continue for as long as necessary.
He also argued that while the government has the authority to remove a traditional ruler, citizens equally possess the constitutional power to vote an elected government out of office. He further indicated that any attempt to remove the Oluwo would be challenged through the courts.
How the controversy started
The latest development follows a warning issued by the Osun State Government through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to the Oluwo of Iwoland.
In a letter dated November 2026, signed by the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Wale Alliyu, the government expressed concern over public statements attributed to the monarch, which it considered capable of provoking religious confrontation and disagreements among traditional rulers and communities.
The government reportedly directed the Oluwo to stop making statements capable of attacking people of other religious beliefs, avoid confrontational remarks against fellow traditional rulers, and uphold the cultural traditions represented by his throne.
The administration also directed the Osun State Council of Obas to monitor developments in Iwoland.
The government maintained that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to freedom of religion and that traditional institutions should not become instruments for promoting religious hostility.
The controversy is particularly sensitive because the Oluwo has repeatedly expressed strong opposition to traditional religious practices, including the presence of traditional deities in Yoruba palaces. His position has generated disagreements among traditionalists, religious leaders and other stakeholders who believe that Yoruba cultural heritage deserves protection and respect.
Recent reports have also linked the disagreement to tensions between the Oluwo and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, although the state government has maintained that its intervention is about protecting peace and preventing communal conflict.
Public reactions: Nigerians divided over the threat
The cleric's declaration has generated heated reactions across social media, with Nigerians expressing sharply different opinions about the government's handling of the situation, religious freedom, traditional institutions and the possibility of a breakdown of law and order.
Some commentators believe the government should stand firm and prevent anyone from intimidating the state with threats of mass mobilisation.
One commenter sarcastically referenced the detention of Nnamdi Kanu, writing:
“Ask Nnamdi Kanu; he will tell you how freedom is priceless.”
Another questioned the political and demographic implications of the threat, asking:
“What is the population of Iwo compared with the general population of Osun State?”
Others urged the government to act decisively, with one commenter warning that those allegedly sponsoring the confrontation should call the cleric to order.
There were also comments suggesting that the controversy could eventually be interpreted as a religious persecution issue if the government takes further action.
One particularly provocative reaction read:
“Kirikiri for Christmas and New Year. E go shock you.”
However, not everyone supported confrontation. Some commentators appealed for restraint, warning against jeopardising the relative peace in the state.
One contributor wrote:
“Let there be decorum. Let there be a cautious approach to issues. Do not let us jeopardise the reigning peace. Freedom is a right for all. Islam connotes peace, which is a strong necessity of life.”
Others questioned whether the cleric's position represented the wider population of Osun State, while some urged political leaders to avoid escalating the disagreement.
The bigger question: Who controls the political temperature of Osun?
Beyond the disagreement between the government and the Oluwo, this development raises important questions about religious freedom, traditional authority, political accountability and the limits of public mobilisation.
A democratic society must protect the right of citizens to express religious convictions, organise peaceful protests and challenge government decisions through lawful means. Equally, freedom of expression and assembly should not become justification for threats, intimidation, violence or the deliberate disruption of public life.
The Osun State Government must demonstrate restraint, fairness and respect for constitutional rights while ensuring that nobody, regardless of religious affiliation, traditional position or political influence, is above the law.
Likewise, religious leaders and traditional institutions have a responsibility to promote peaceful coexistence rather than deepen divisions among communities.
Ultimately, Osun State cannot afford a religious or political confrontation capable of dividing its people.
The question is no longer simply whether the government will issue another letter to the Oluwo. It is whether political leaders, religious authorities and traditional institutions can manage their disagreements without turning Osun into a battleground.
Osun belongs to everyone, not one religious group, political party, town or traditional institution.
Source: The PUNCH, Premium Times, Osun Defender and other published reports.
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