Prof. Soyinka Attacks Emir Of Ilorin , Condemns Cancellation Of Òrìşà Festival
Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has strongly criticized the Emir of Ilorin, Sulu Gambari, for canceling the Isese Festival, stating that it constitutes a crime against cultural heritage.
In an open letter addressed to the Emir on Thursday, Soyinka expressed his disappointment at witnessing the ancient city of Ilorin, known for its diverse faiths and ethnicities, succumb to bigotry and intolerance under the leadership of its monarch.
Soyinka’s letter emphasized that the cancellation of a traditional festival is an assault on the cultural heritage of all humanity. He pointed out that the Ramadan season, celebrated inclusively by people of different beliefs across Nigeria, has never provoked objections regarding the public slaughter of rams.
The renowned author also drew attention to his personal experiences abroad, particularly in Abu Dhabi, where government-funded initiatives promote the development of a tolerant and respectful society based on religious diversity. In stark contrast, Soyinka lamented the regression he observed in Ilorin, which is far removed from its origins.
Recalling a tragic incident in Ilorin where a Corpus Christi procession was attacked by Muslim extremists, Soyinka condemned such acts of violence and the routine occurrences of intolerance that have eroded community cohesion.
Soyinka linked the Emir’s conduct to the rise of extremist groups such as Boko Haram, ISIS, and ISWAP, which have brought suffering and indignation to Nigeria, transforming once peaceful areas like Kaduna into blood-soaked arenas. He highlighted the case of a student named Deborah, who was lynched in the presence of armed police for allegedly disrespecting a revered prophet, illustrating how such actions turn young people into mindless killers, protected by a presumed religious immunity.
The author also expressed concern about the global ramifications of religiously motivated violence, citing the example of an extremist in a Scandinavian country who publicly burned copies of the Qur’an, leading to retaliatory acts and an escalating cycle of violence. Soyinka reminded the Emir of the centuries of disdain and exploitation Africa has endured at the hands of alien religions, particularly Christianity and Islam, which have been used to justify unspeakable atrocities and dehumanize black people.
He called for a recognition and preservation of alternative worldviews, advocating for the acceptance of diverse spiritualities and their celebrations. Soyinka highlighted the persistence of ISESE and related spiritual practices among the descendants of black humanity in countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Cuba, urging the Emir to respect and honor these traditions.
In conclusion, Soyinka implored the Emir to rein in divisive elements, such as the Majlisu Shabab Ulamahu Society, and reconcile with Yeye Ajasikemi OIokun Omolara as a means of making amends for the grievous insult inflicted upon their shared race. He emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence, respect for different worldviews, and the acceptance of multiple paths to enlightenment. Soyinka reminded the Emir that even the mightiest thrones eventually crumble, and future generations will bear the consequences of present injustices and animosities.
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