The Araba of Osogbo, a high-ranking traditional priest and custodian of the Ifa oracle, has replied to the recent comments made by the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi .
The Oluwo, who traces his own royal ancestry to Ile-Ife, had previously called out Babalawos regarding the issue of kidnapping and banditry, challenging their role and effectiveness amidst the escalating security crisis .
In his response, the Araba, a prominent voice in the preservation of Yoruba philosophy and traditional religion, defended the role of traditionalists and priests in society, reaffirming that they remain a vital part of the solution to the region’s challenges . He countered the criticism, emphasising that the spiritual and cultural framework of the Yoruba people should not be overlooked in the national conversation on security .
The exchange highlights the growing tension between traditional institutions and religious leadership over who bears responsibility for the security crises ravaging communities, including the recent spate of school kidnappings and banditry across the South-West.
