Threats and Harassment over Planned Festival
Yeye Ajesikemi Olokun Omolara, an Osun priestess in Ilorin, Kwara State, faced harassment and threats from a Muslim group, Majlisu Shabab li Ulamahu Society, after announcing a planned Isese festival. Following the release of fliers online, members of the group reportedly stormed her residence, warning her against proceeding with the event. Omolara expressed her dismay at the situation and revealed that she had received numerous death threats since the incident.
Surprise and Disappointment
In a video shared online, Omolara expressed her surprise at the turn of events, as she had been living peacefully in Ilorin for many years. She highlighted her positive contributions to the community, such as facilitating the construction of a mosque and a well, as well as engaging in philanthropic acts. Despite her past efforts, she lamented the lack of support from her neighbors during her current ordeal.
Commitment to Community
Despite the treatment she received, Yeye Omolara vowed to continue helping her community. When asked about converting to Islam, she firmly stated her decision to remain true to her beliefs. The priestess also expressed her disappointment in the recent behavior of the imams, which solidified her conviction.
The Isese festival, intended to celebrate Yoruba deities, was ultimately canceled due to the threats and harassment. Yeye Omolara’s experience sheds light on the tensions and challenges faced by individuals practicing different religious beliefs in Nigeria and the importance of tolerance and mutual respect in fostering peaceful coexistence.
