By David Kabiyesi
Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams has written an open letter to Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to ensure religious crisis is nipped in the bud by all mean.
Irked by high level of fanatism exhibited by some set of people in the state, Gani Adam appealed to the governor to prevail on the Emir of Ilorin, Justice Ibrahim Sulu Gambari (rtd), to lunch massive crackdown any form of fanatism in the state
In an open letter entitled: ‘Religious Fanaticism: Clear and Present Danger in Ilorin’ addressed to the governor, Adams reminded AbdulRazaq of the recent story of an Osun deity devotee, who wanted to practise her faith in peace, but was visited by some aggressive Islamic leaders, who warned her to stop, otherwise something terrible might happen to her.
“Your Excellency, religion is personal, as long as you don’t allow your belief to affect others. I am sure no traditionalist will go to any Church or Mosque to practise his or her faith.”
“It is because of this legal truism that I want to bring to your notice a ‘clear and present danger’ in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, which may lead to implosion, if something drastic is not done immediately to checkmate some religious fanatics already on the rampage. These fanatics have demonstrated, through their actions, their lack of respect for the Constitution.”
“Kwara is known as the ‘State of Harmony’ and the three main religions – Christianity, Islam and Traditional – have co-existed for more than 400 years. Pitiably, some fanatics want to turn it to a ‘State of Hostility, hatred, belligerence, blood and tears’ and as the CSO, you should not allow this affront.”
“Obviously, Ilorin was founded by the Yoruba and we have never prevented anybody from practising his or her faith. Ilorin is also a Yoruba city with a large Muslim population, but there are still many Christians and traditionalists practising their faiths and praying to God.
“I am writing this letter to you to prevail on the Emir of Ilorin, retired Justice Ibrahim Kolapo Sulu Gambari, not to allow any Muslim fanatic invoke his name to cause insurrection because this can lead to a religious war.” the letter reads
