The Urgent Call for Action from the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU)
The growing silence of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) regarding recent developments in Kwara State is becoming increasingly concerning. A community that values its heritage and strives for progress cannot afford to remain silent when faced with actions that threaten its unity and seek to diminish the legacies of its leaders.
The Yoruba proverb, “Bí ẹni bá sún mọ odi, ó ye kí odi sún mọ ẹni” (If one moves closer to the wall, the wall should reciprocate), highlights the shared responsibility between a community and its leaders. When conflict arises within Ilorin, the IEDPU cannot look away. Silence risks undermining its relevance and credibility. The IEDPU must act as a steadfast protector, fostering peace and unity within the community.
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has taken several actions that many perceive as vindictive and politically motivated. He first demolished Ile Arugbo, the political home of Dr. Olusola Abubakar Saraki, a respected figure and former Wazirin Ngeri. Subsequently, he reversed the naming of institutions and roads honoring Saraki, attempting to erase his contributions from public memory.
The recent demolition of Crystal Place, a business center owned by Wakilin Ngeri Hon. Mashood Mustapha, without consideration for innocent tenants who may have paid rent for years, reflects a troubling trend driven by business and perceived political conflicts.
Even more alarming is the governor’s disregard for Ilorin’s traditional institutions. In 2021, he unilaterally canceled the Durbar, a cherished cultural event, without consulting the traditional council. The IEDPU’s silence at that time may have emboldened the governor to continue his destructive actions. As the Yoruba say, “Tí òdòdó bá dá, a fìbò wò ó” (When the flower wilts, people hide to observe)—silence in times of strife only invites more trouble.
Furthermore, the governor’s demolition of lockup shops, which destroyed the livelihoods of those already struggling economically, again saw the IEDPU remain silent, failing to advocate for adequate compensation for the affected individuals. This silence has deepened the community’s despair and raised questions about the IEDPU’s commitment to the welfare of Ilorin’s people.
Two years ago, allegations arose that the governor prevented Dr. Saraki from attending the Eid prayer and Durbar, yet the IEDPU chose to remain quiet. This ongoing silence risks portraying the IEDPU as complicit in the erosion of Ilorin’s cultural heritage and the diminishing respect for its traditional institutions.
Communities like Offa have consistently defended their traditions and integrity, showing that standing up for truth and justice is always the right path. Offa has made it clear that they will not allow Dr. Saraki’s reputation to be tarnished for political reasons. Why then has the IEDPU chosen to remain silent in the face of irrational and damaging allegations against the Emirate’s titleholder? Have we lost our conscience, dignity, and integrity as a community?
Notable religious scholars have also spoken out, expressing their concerns about the governor’s actions. They understand that remaining silent in the face of injustice can have dire consequences for the community. The saying, “He who watches another’s secret will eventually be exposed,” serves as a warning against silence in the face of wrongdoing.
As a vital part of the Ilorin Emirate’s progress, the IEDPU cannot afford to remain passive. Silence in these times is not golden; it is dangerous. By failing to speak up, the IEDPU risks implying that it condones the governor’s politically motivated and disrespectful actions toward traditional leaders and the cultural values that unite us.
The recent derogatory remarks about the Wazirin Ngeri by the governor’s spokesperson, Ajakaye, were not just insults to Saraki but also an affront to the entire Ilorin Emirate and its traditions. Such behavior undermines the dignity of the community and cannot go unchallenged. Had the IEDPU been more active in defending the honor of the Emirate, such disrespectful comments might not have been made. The proverb, “Bí won bá rán ni níṣé́ ẹ̀rú, fi ti ọmọlúwàbí ṣe” (If you are sent on an errand as a servant, deliver it with the dignity of a freeborn), reminds us that Ajakaye’s role does not grant him the freedom to make such provocative statements about a former Turakin Ngeri.
As the people of Ilorin face disrespect and threats to their heritage from both internal and external forces, it is crucial for elites, religious scholars, and community leaders to unite in defense of their traditions. “Igbà kan kò wọlé kan” (Time does not wait for anyone). The IEDPU must recognize that silence is no longer an option. It is time to speak out boldly, defend the legacy of the Emirate, and ensure the preservation of Ilorin’s rich cultural and historical heritage for future generations.
The time for action is now.
