Activists are calling for the transfer of the Ilorin arson investigation to a federal jurisdiction amid claims that the traditional worshipper victim is being intimidated and silenced
Activists and social media users are demanding the immediate transfer of the ongoing arson investigation in Ilorin to a federal jurisdiction outside Kwara State, citing allegations that the victim; a traditional worshiper, is facing silencing, intimidation, and pressure from local influences.
Also read: Muslims burn down traditional worshipper’s house in Ilorin
The calls come just days after a New Year’s Day fire destroyed the home of Iya Abiye (also known as Iya Osun or T.A. Olorisha), which she attributes to religious threats from Muslim neighbors.
In a viral post on X (formerly Twitter), user @itsbennylee highlighted the concerns, stating: “The victim of the arson in Ilorin is being silenced, intimidated, and pressured. This case can no longer be trusted within Ilorin alone.” The post, which has garnered over 136 likes and 90 reposts, urges authorities to ensure “justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.”
It points to “clear attempts to deny, downplay, and reframe what happened,” despite prior reports of bullying and intimidation leading up to the arson.
The activist emphasized the need for an independent investigation, protection for the victim, and accountability “regardless of religion, influence, or status.”
Tagging several entities including @Kwara_PoliceNG, @BenHundeyin (Lagos State Police PRO), human rights advocates like @sowore and @animolenikun, and local groups such as @ILE_AJISEFA and @InsideIlorin_NG, the post warns that “arson is a crime. Intimidation is a crime. Silence is not justice.”
Replies to the post echo these sentiments, amplifying the push for action.
One user, @kelvin_rude_, praised the effort and called for more voices to ensure the message spreads widely.
Another, @poyinlol, suggested involving prominent lawyer Femi Falana and transferring the case to Oyo State.
@ARIKUYERI27 questioned whether the perpetrators are being shielded under religious pretexts, tagging the Kwara State Government.
@leowatts08 expressed frustration with the Nigerian Police Force’s reliability, while @yoruba_firstt1 linked the incident to broader tensions between Yoruba Muslims and other groups.
This development follows the January 1 incident where Iya Abiye’s eight-room residence in Isale Koko was razed while she attended an Osun festival.
Although the Kwara State Fire Service initially blamed a power surge, the victim and supporters insist it was deliberate arson motivated by religious intolerance.
Kwara Police have arrested three suspects and are investigating, but critics argue local biases may hinder a fair probe.
The case revives memories of past conflicts in Ilorin, including 2023 disruptions of Isese festivals and threats against traditionalists.
Human rights groups have long called for better protection of religious minorities in the emirate city.
Also read: Three Muslims arrested over arson attack on traditional worshipper in Ilorin
As pressure mounts, authorities have yet to respond publicly to the transfer demands, leaving the victim’s safety and the pursuit of justice in question.
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator and a recipient of the D9112 Superstar Icon Award, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
