By Desire Emmanuel
Uproar has greeted the action of some Islamic fundamentalists in Ilorin, Kwara State, as they invaded the house of a female traditional worshipper and burnt it down when the woman was not at home.
In fact, three of the fundamentalists have been arrested by men of the state police command in connection with the incident that occurred at the Isale Koko area of the state capital while others are currently on the run.
The arson carried out by the fundamentalists has also caused tension between the traditional worshippers and Muslims. The traditional worshippers perceived the action as an affront especially due to the fact that they burnt down the house of a woman.
It was gathered that the traditional worshipper, Mrs. T. A. Olorisha, had on January 2 reported at C Division of the state police command that her house was set ablaze on New Year’s Day when she was away.
According to sources at the state police command, the woman had in November last year lodged a complaint, alleging that she received threats from some Islamic clerics over religious differences, as they told her to stop practicing her faith as she was not supposed to be done “in a purely Islamic city.”
However, the cleric went ahead to carry out the threat as they came with their followers and set the house ablaze on New Year’s Day when the woman was not at home.
Confirming the development on Saturday, the Public Relations Officer of the command, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the command had commenced what she described as “a thorough investigation into the fire incident suspected to be an act of arson at Isale Koko Area, Ilorin “
The statement also said that the command is aware of a video circulating online in which the elderly woman said her home was completely razed by fire.
The statement added: ”The complainant alleged that she had received threats in November 2025 from some individuals, including Alhaji Salihu Saka, Alhaji Abubakar Salihu and Alhaji Yekini Olohuntele allegedly over religious differences, as she is a traditional worshipper. All three persons arrested are currently in police custody, aiding investigations.
”No life lost, as no one was inside the building at the time of the incident. The value of the property destroyed is yet to be ascertained.
”The command assures members of the public that concerted efforts are ongoing to apprehend the other perpetrators, while all allegations are being diligently investigated.
”The Kwara State Police Command reiterates its commitment to protecting lives, property, and the fundamental rights of all residents, regardless of religious or cultural beliefs. Members of the public are urged to remain calm and provide useful information that can aid the investigation.”
