FG Cracks Down On Religious Incitement In South-West Amid Growing Extremist Threats

The Federal Government is reportedly investigating rising concerns over religious activities that may be fostering tension in the South West region of Nigeria.

Sources close to the administration revealed to Nigerian Tribune that there is growing unease over reports linking certain groups and individuals to extremist actions, potentially escalating religious discord in the region.

Two incidents in Oyo State recently raised alarms, leading to suspicions that extremist influences could be infiltrating the South West, an area historically known for its religious tolerance.

Naija News understands that this shift has prompted the government to take action.

Security agencies have been alerted and given strict instructions to tackle any such developments before they can spread further.

Reports suggest that extremists may be attempting to infiltrate the region, using areas such as the Old Oyo National Park and Kamoko Forest—stretching across Kaduna, Niger, and Kwara states—as routes to enter the South West.

Additionally, some groups appear to be trying to sow division by promoting religious hate.

In response, security operatives recently interrogated members of a pro-Sharia group in Oyo Town, who had publicly announced plans to establish a Sharia Court.

According to sources, the group clarified that their initial intention was to set up a Sharia Panel for civil issues like marriage, divorce, and inheritance, acknowledging that the judicial authority in the country lies with constitutional courts.

Further investigations led to the arrest of a man, John Olanrewaju Ifagbemi, for allegedly desecrating the Quran.

Ifagbemi reportedly posted offensive content on social media about the Quran and had planned similar actions regarding the Holy Bible in an effort to promote his brand of traditional religion.

While some social media users attempted to portray Ifagbemi’s arrest as an attack on his religious beliefs, sources emphasized that his actions could incite religious unrest and had nothing to do with the principle of secularism.

One source noted, “Clinging to secularism in this case is misplaced.”