Traditional religion adherents under the umbrella of the International Council for Ifá Religion (ICIR) have urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to include indigenous faith practitioners in policy formulation, national dialogues and efforts to tackle Nigeria’s mounting security challenges.
The appeal was made by the President of ICIR, Dr Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode, during the World Ifá Festival 2026 held in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of ICIR, Awoyemi Ifajemisin Ayanladun, Fakayode stressed that involving traditional religion practitioners in governance and national development would promote social inclusion, strengthen unity and foster lasting peace across the country.
According to him, indigenous faith communities possess valuable cultural and spiritual insights that could contribute meaningfully to national progress and conflict resolution.
Delivering the message of the Ifá of the Year, Òsá Méjì, at the palace of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, Fakayode expressed serious concern over the rising wave of kidnappings, banditry and other violent crimes across the nation.
He lamented that insecurity, including armed robbery, terrorism, ritual killings and bandit attacks, has continued to claim innocent lives and create fear among Nigerians.
Fakayode appealed to President Tinubu to tap into the knowledge and contributions of indigenous faith communities in finding practical solutions to the nation’s security and social challenges.
“The persistent insecurity in the country remains a source of pain and concern. The loss of innocent lives to criminal activities is heartbreaking. We appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to recognise and harness the contributions of indigenous faith communities in nation-building and peace initiatives,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, who doubles as Chairman of the Council of Nigerian Traditional Rulers, called on Babalawo and Ifá practitioners from across the world to continue praying and working for peace and security in Nigeria.
The revered monarch urged traditional worshippers not to abandon the country in its difficult period, stressing that the spiritual heritage and wisdom of Ifá remain vital tools for promoting harmony, stability and national cohesion.
Oba Ogunwusi recalled the historic role of Orunmila in fostering peace among humanity and expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its present challenges through collective effort and unity.
He acknowledged the difficulties facing the nation but maintained that with commitment, patriotism and cooperation from all stakeholders, Nigeria would emerge stronger.
The ICIR concluded the festival with prayers to Olódùmarè for peace, prosperity and progress for Nigeria, while seeking divine justice against those responsible for acts of violence and criminality in the country.
