On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen. I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria. My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few. Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite. Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions. But history tells a different story. Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, politi...
OSOGBO, OSUN STATE — Tension is brewing over a controversial incident at the revered Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, as the Otuagasa Foundation has called on security agencies to urgently investigate and arrest individuals accused of committing a sacrilegious act within the historic site.
The call follows the circulation of a viral video on social media showing a group of individuals, dressed in white garments, allegedly conducting prayers inside the sacred grove, an act that has sparked widespread concern among traditional worshippers.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Saturday, the Foundation’s founder, Ogundeji Elebuibon, condemned the incident, describing it as provocative and capable of triggering religious unrest if not swiftly addressed.
Elebuibon alleged that the act was carried out by a Christian group and urged the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), both in Osun State and nationwide, to caution its members against desecrating sacred traditional sites.
“No one has the monopoly of violence, but for the sake of peace, we have chosen restraint,” he stated, while calling on law enforcement, particularly the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.
He emphasized that traditionalists in Osogbo have historically demonstrated tolerance by allowing access to the grove for spiritual purposes, warning that such openness should not be exploited.
The Foundation also raised concerns about custodians of the grove, including the Ataoja of Osogbo, Baba Olosun, and Iya Olosun, urging them to uphold the sanctity of the site and prioritize its preservation beyond economic interests.
According to the statement, the individuals involved allegedly gained entry into the grove, recorded themselves performing rituals described as “casting out spirits” from sacred symbols, and shared the footage publicly, an act Elebuibon labeled as religious fanaticism taken too far.
He further warned that the grove is not only a spiritual center but also a globally recognized cultural heritage, stressing that any attempt to defile or disrespect it under the guise of religious practice must be firmly addressed to prevent escalation.
“Religion is personal, but invading a sacred traditional space to perform contradictory rituals is irresponsible and dangerous,” he added.
The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO-recognized heritage site, remains one of the most significant symbols of Yoruba spirituality and cultural identity, making the incident particularly sensitive in Nigeria’s multi-religious landscape.
Authorities are yet to issue an official response as calls for investigation and accountability continue to mount.
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