The Oyo State Command of the Department of State Services (DSS) played a pivotal role in preventing a potential religious crisis in Oyo town, following two separate but related incidents: the proposal by Islamic clerics to establish a Sharia Arbitration Panel and the burning of the Qur’an by a traditionalist. Both incidents sparked significant public uproar and concern over possible escalations into broader religious conflicts....CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE➤
The issue began when some Islamic clerics in Oyo town announced their intention to establish a Sharia Arbitration Panel, which was perceived by many as an attempt to create a parallel judicial system. This announcement led to widespread debate and anxiety within the community. Recognizing the potential for conflict, the DSS intervened by inviting the clerics for a discussion at the DSS Command Headquarters in Ibadan, the state capital.
During the session, the clerics were informed that the establishment of any form of judicial panel or court must be backed by the Nigerian Constitution. They were sensitized on the legal implications of their proposal and the potential for it to cause discord within the multi-religious society of Oyo State. Following the engagement with the DSS, the clerics decided to drop their plans and subsequently issued a public retraction through various national newspapers.
The second incident involved a traditionalist who publicly burned a copy of the Qur’an and shared the act on social media, provoking outrage and fear of retaliatory violence. The DSS swiftly arrested the individual, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining peace and order. The traditionalist is currently facing charges related to incitement, public disturbance, and threats to national security.
Sources within the security community commended the DSS for its balanced approach to handling both incidents. By treating the situations with equal seriousness and engaging with both parties, the DSS successfully diffused tensions that could have escalated into a full-blown crisis.
These proactive measures by the DSS highlight the importance of prompt and fair intervention in matters with the potential to inflame religious tensions. The agency’s actions not only prevented immediate conflict but also set a precedent for handling similar situations in the future. The balance shown by the DSS in these instances underscores its role as a key player in safeguarding Nigeria’s national security and religious harmony. ...CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE➤
Be the first to comment