In a recent interactive live program held in Brazil and moderated by Adeyinka Olaiya, the renowned Yoruba Icon, Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon, addressed the allegations surrounding the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi. During the program, the Araba of Osogbo expressed his concerns about the Oluwo’s alleged interference with Yoruba traditional religion and went further to claim that the Oba is an agent of Saudi Arabia, backed by Muslim radicals who seek to undermine traditional religious practices in Nigeria.
Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon emphasized that Oba Abdulrasheed, like some Muslim clerics, is purportedly sponsored by Saudi Muslim radicals who provide financial support to disrupt the peace of Isese (Yoruba traditional religion) in Nigeria. He stated that it is important not to take the Oluwo’s statements seriously, as he is seen by many as an unrepresentative king, and even the people of Iwo are reportedly tired of him.
The Araba also shed light on the internal problems among Yoruba traditionalists and the Ifa council in Nigeria, expressing his confidence that a resolution is imminent. Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon assured that he is actively working towards restoring peace and unity among the leaders in the Yoruba traditional religion community.
During the program, the Yoruba icon commended Muslims who peacefully coexist with other religious groups and strongly condemned religious intolerance in any form. He expressed his disapproval of Oba Abdulrasheed’s statement suggesting that governors, rather than Ifa (Yoruba divination system), determine the appointment of kings. The Araba urged the Oluwo to address such matters with Saudi leaders, as they do not align with Yoruba customs and traditions.
Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon’s remarks shed light on the ongoing tensions within the Yoruba traditional religion community and the alleged external influence that some Muslim clerics may have in undermining the practice of Isese in Nigeria. While emphasizing the need for unity and peaceful coexistence, he urged the Oluwo of Iwo to refrain from making statements that deviate from Yoruba cultural norms and customs.
