The World Institute for Peace (WIP) has urged the Osun State Police Command to strengthen security measures ahead of the upcoming Ifa Festival and Eid-el-Kabir celebration in Ile-Ife, scheduled to take place on June 6, 2025.

In an open letter addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Abba, WIP’s Executive Director, Lamina Omotoyosi, highlighted the potential for religious tension, citing past incidents of clashes between traditional worshippers and Muslims during similar events.

Omotoyosi expressed concern over the overlapping dates of the Annual World Ifa Festival and the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, noting that the proximity of the Ifa Temple to the Ile-Ife Central Mosque, where thousands of Muslims are expected to gather for Jumaat prayers, could escalate tensions.

The letter, which was also copied to Governor Ademola Adeleke; the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, Adejobi Olumuyiwa; the Director of the Department of State Services, Osun State Command; the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps; and the Amotekun Corps, called for urgent collaboration among security agencies and religious leaders to prevent any unrest.

Titled “Urgent call for enhanced security measures during upcoming religious festivals in Ile-Ife: A stitch in time saves nine,” the letter proposed several proactive measures, including joint security efforts, stakeholder meetings, and engagement with community leaders.

Omotoyosi recommended convening a dialogue involving the Chief Imam of Ile-Ife, the Grand Chief Imam of Osogbo, and leaders of the traditional worshippers. He also called for the involvement of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II, in promoting peace during the festivities.

“Given the historical context of tensions between traditional worshippers and Muslims in the area, it is imperative to implement maximum security measures to ensure the safety and peace of all residents and participants during these significant events,” the letter stated.

Omotoyosi urged security agencies to collaborate with the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and paramilitary organisations to create a comprehensive security plan.

The WIP expressed hope that the police and other stakeholders would act swiftly to avert any potential crisis. “This letter serves as an open appeal for prompt action, reflecting our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community,” Omotoyosi added.