Involve traditionalists in formulation of policies, national issues – ICIR appeals to Tinubu

Traditional religion adherents have appealed to the federal government to involve them in the formulation of policies, national dialogues and other pressing issues affecting the country. 

President of International Council for Ifá Religion (ICIR), Dr Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode, made this appeal during the just concluded World Ifá Festival 2026 held in Ile-Ife, Osun State. 

Fakayode, in a statement issued by ICIR Public Relations Officer, Awoyemi Ifajemisin Ayanladun and made available to DAILY POST on Tuesday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, noted that the need to involve them is to ensure social inclusion, foster peace and harmony in the country.

Fakayode noted that the inclusion of indigenous faith practitioners in national development and policy formulation will help to ensure sustainable progress in Nigeria.

The ICIR President, while delivering the message of the Ifá of the year, Òsá Méjì, at the palace of the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of kidnappings and banditry across the country.

He said that persistent cases of violent crimes such as kidnapping, armed robberies, ritual killings, terrorism and banditry are the major sources of pain and concern for most Nigerians. 

He then appealed to Tinubu to involve them to find workable solutions to the problems. 

“We expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of kidnappings and banditry across the country. The persistent insecurity remains a source of pain and concern to adherents of indigenous faith. The loss of innocent lives to criminal activities is heartbreaking and prayed that the sacrifices of those who have fallen victim to banditry would not be in vain.

“We appeal to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to recognise and harness the contributions of indigenous faith communities in nation-building and peace initiatives”. 

Ogunwusi, who doubles as Chairman of the Council of Nigerian Traditional Rulers, called on Babalawo and Ifá practitioners from across the world who attended the festival to continue supporting efforts aimed at restoring peace and security in Nigeria. 

The traditional ruler urged them not to leave the nation unattended. 

He reiterated the historic role of Orunmila in fostering peace and unity among humanity and expressed confidence. 

He acknowledged that the times are challenging but maintained that Nigeria will rise again through unity, commitment and collective action.

Involve traditionalists in formulation of policies, national issues – ICIR appeals to Tinubu