The Traditional Religion Worshippers Association of Osun State has petitioned the police, seeking an investigation into the alleged intrusion and desecration of a shrine at the Osun-Osogbo Grove by some Christian pastors.
The petition was submitted to the Osun State Police Command headquarters in Osogbo on Monday, following reports that the clerics stormed the sacred site and tampered with one of its shrines.
In an effort to ease tensions, the Osun State Government on Tuesday held a meeting with representatives of the traditional worshippers and the church involved in the incident.
Videos circulating on social media showed a confrontation at the grove, where a man in white robes, reportedly among the pastors, was seen making gestures near a shrine while proclaiming the supremacy of Jesus Christ.
The clash intensified as more traditional worshippers arrived, prompting the pastors to leave after a male traditionalist intervened to prevent violence.
Another video later emerged showing individuals claiming to be traditional worshippers entering the church of the pastor allegedly involved in the shrine incident.
In the footage, some masked intruders were seen performing rituals, including killing a dog, which they said was retaliation for the earlier invasion. Church members reportedly watched the act unfold helplessly.
Speaking exclusively to PUNCH Metro, TRAWSO President Dr Oluseyi Atanda confirmed the petition had been lodged with the police but declined to comment on the alleged reprisal at the church. He also confirmed that the state government, represented by Commissioner for Home Affairs Rasheed Aderibigbe, met with leaders of TRAWSO, the Christian Association of Nigeria, and the church involved.
Dr Atanda said the meeting provided a platform to present the concerns of all parties and that the government assured steps would be taken to prevent a recurrence and calm tensions.
“We are law-abiding citizens, which is why we have addressed this matter through official channels. The CAN leadership also promised to consider our petition and respond,” he said.
The Police Public Relations Officer for Osun State, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the petition had been received and said it would be treated with due diligence.
