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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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