The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Ile-Ife, Osun State, has denounced the five-hour curfew imposed by adherents of the Obatala deity on Wednesday, describing it as illegal.
The curfew, reportedly enforced to facilitate the Oro procession through selected areas in Ile-Ife, was deemed unacceptable by CAN leadership.
In a statement signed by Oba Isoro O. Dada, the Obalesu Obatala Agbaiye, residents of specified areas were advised to abide by the curfew for the smooth conduct of the Oro procession.
The statement urged compliance from residents to ensure the benefit of Ile-Ife.
Dada’s announcement outlined the affected areas and emphasized the importance of residents staying indoors during the designated period, from 2 pm to 7 pm, for the duration of the Oro procession.
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However, CAN in Ile-Ife deemed such restrictions unlawful and raised concerns over potential disruptions to daily activities.
Rev Canon Sam Onitiju, the Ile-Ife CAN chairman, highlighted previous instances of tension between Muslims, Oro adherents, and Christians in the region, citing past clashes.
He referenced a peace meeting convened by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, where religious leaders emphasized the importance of religious tolerance and discouraged movement restrictions during daylight hours.
Onitiju urged Christians to observe their Holy Week services without fear of harassment or interference.
He called upon law enforcement authorities to uphold peace and prevent any infringements on individuals’ rights under the pretext of religious practices.
CAN’s stance underscores the importance of maintaining religious harmony and respecting individual freedoms in Ile-Ife, emphasizing the need for mutual understanding and tolerance among religious communities.
