The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has appealed to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, to put aside their differences and work together for the unity and progress of Yorubaland.
In a communique signed by its President, Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode, and released on Tuesday in commemoration of the 2025 Isese Day, the council emphasized that harmony among Yoruba monarchs was critical to cultural preservation and regional development.
“Our special appeal goes to Imperial Majesties Alayeluwa Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Oonirisa, and Alayeluwa Oba Abimbola Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo, to continue their noble endeavours in harmony for the betterment of our people. To propel our land towards development, progress and unity, we enjoin our traditional rulers to foster a spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding,” the council urged.
While felicitating with Isese adherents globally, ICIR praised governors of Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, and Osun States for officially declaring August 20 as Isese Day. The group, however, called on Ekiti, Ondo, Kwara, Kogi, Edo, and Delta to emulate the example by adopting the holiday in their respective states.
The council also demanded that the Federal Government take steps towards national recognition of the traditional religion by declaring August 20 and 21 as public holidays. It further urged the government to fund cultural festivals, protect shrines and sacred lands, integrate practitioners into cultural councils, and invest in heritage sites to boost tourism and community growth.
“Isese represents the foundation of Yoruba and African identity; it embodies morality, unity, reverence for nature and communal living. Celebrating Isese safeguards our heritage, promotes pride in our culture, and strengthens enduring values such as honesty, respect and hard work,” the statement added.
The council reaffirmed its belief that peace among Yoruba monarchs and recognition of Isese by more states and the Federal Government would deepen cultural harmony and strengthen Nigeria’s plural religious identity.
