Yoruba Nation activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Igboho, has condemned the demand for the arrest of the Alaafin-designate.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the call for his arrest was made by a group known as Yoruba Muslims for Freedom (YMF), sparking controversy in Oyo State.

The Alaafin of Oyo, Akeem Owoade, had earlier imposed a 21-day curfew in Oyo town ahead of his coronation.

YMF opposed the curfew, claiming it was an attempt to undermine religious freedom and suppress Muslim residents in the town.

The group accused the Alaafin-designate of enforcing a decision that allegedly targeted the Muslim community unfairly.

They called on security agencies to intervene and arrest him, arguing that the curfew was unnecessary.

Igboho, alongside several Yoruba youth leaders, dismissed YMF’s accusations, calling them baseless and politically motivated.

He described the curfew as a necessary step to ensure peace and order during the traditional transition period.

According to Igboho, the Alaafin’s decision was not religiously motivated but was meant to maintain stability in Oyo town.

He criticized YMF for attempting to stir religious tension instead of supporting Yoruba unity.

The case and the curfew controversy

The curfew imposed by the Alaafin-designate was announced to prevent possible unrest before the royal coronation.

Local authorities and traditional institutions in Oyo supported the decision, citing security concerns.

YMF, however, insisted that the curfew was discriminatory and aimed at restricting Muslim activities in the town.

They claimed that mosques and Islamic gatherings were being unfairly affected while traditional and Christian events continued.

In response, Igboho refuted these allegations, stating that the curfew applied to all residents regardless of religion.

He argued that Yoruba traditional rulers had always protected religious harmony and would not act against any faith.

He urged Yoruba people to reject divisive narratives that seek to weaken their cultural and political unity.

Several Yoruba youth groups also condemned YMF’s stance, accusing them of spreading misinformation.

They expressed support for the Alaafin-designate, insisting that his decision was for the greater good of Oyo town.

YMF’s position and criticism from Yoruba leaders

YMF has maintained that its opposition to the curfew is based on concerns over religious rights.

The group alleged that past Yoruba monarchs had never imposed such restrictions before their coronation.

They warned that the curfew set a dangerous precedent that could be used to suppress Islamic practices in the future.

Despite these claims, Yoruba leaders across different sectors have rejected YMF’s arguments.

Prominent traditional chiefs and elders reaffirmed their confidence in the Alaafin-designate’s leadership.

They accused YMF of attempting to create unnecessary divisions among Yoruba people for political purposes.

Igboho also warned that any attempt to destabilize the Yoruba community using religion would not be tolerated.

He reminded YMF that Yoruba culture has historically accommodated diverse religious beliefs without conflict.

Igboho’s call for Yoruba unity

Igboho emphasized the need for Yoruba people to remain united in defending their traditions and leadership.

He said that external influences should not be allowed to interfere with Yoruba affairs through religious manipulation.

He urged Yoruba Muslims, Christians, and traditionalists to work together in promoting peace and understanding.

According to Igboho, the Alaafin’s authority should be respected as an important symbol of Yoruba identity.

He warned against allowing religious disputes to weaken the Yoruba struggle for self-determination and progress.

Yoruba youth leaders also called for calm, urging residents of Oyo to support the coronation process peacefully.

They dismissed YMF’s claims as attempts to create unnecessary panic ahead of the historic event.

The upcoming coronation of the Alaafin-designate remains a significant moment for Yoruba culture and governance.

As preparations continue, many believe that unity and respect for tradition should remain the top priority.

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