The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly arrested a traditional worshipper, identified as Balogun Odofin, in Ibadan, Oyo State, for allegedly burning a copy of the Qur’an.
The arrest was disclosed by Abdulazeez Adegbola, a controversial traditionalist popularly known as Tani Olohun, on his Facebook page on Wednesday.
According to Adegbola, the suspect is currently being held at the DSS office in Eleyele, Ibadan.
Attempts to confirm the arrest from the DSS were unsuccessful, as the agency has not appointed a spokesperson following the redeployment of Dr. Peter Afunanya in September 2024.
The DSS has recently adopted a more secretive media policy, characterized by limited engagement with the public and media.
The incident has sparked reactions from various quarters, with traditional rulers and religious leaders calling for calm and urging authorities to act decisively.
Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola Adeyeri III, the Aseyin of Iseyinland, condemned the burning of the Qur’an, describing it as a despicable act that undermines religious harmony.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the monarch emphasized the need for mutual respect among religious groups to maintain peace.
“This act is an affront to the teachings of all faiths, which emphasize respect for one another’s beliefs. It sows seeds of discord and incites unnecessary tension,” he said.
The monarch urged the public, especially the Muslim community, to remain calm and avoid retaliation, while calling on authorities to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The incident brings back memories of Tani Olohun’s own legal troubles. In November 2023, the Ibadan-based traditionalist was arrested and arraigned in Ilorin, Kwara State, for allegedly burning a copy of the Qur’an and defaming prominent Muslim leaders.
While addressing the court during his trial, Adegbola expressed remorse, apologized to the Muslim community, and promised to respect religious symbols in the future.
“I didn’t know that burning the Qur’an was an offence,” he said at the time, pledging to refrain from posting offensive content on social media.
Oba Sefiu called on stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and government officials, to foster a culture of tolerance and respect.
“Acts of religious desecration have no place in our society. Let this serve as a reminder of the need to educate people about the importance of living in harmony,” the monarch stated.
He also appealed to the global community to stand against religious intolerance, urging collective efforts to replace hatred with mutual respect.
The DSS is yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but tensions remain high as stakeholders work to prevent further escalation.
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