The traditional ruler of Iwo in Osun State, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has issued a strong rebuttal against circulating reports alleging the presence of a terrorist group within his domain. The monarch described the claims as not only false but dangerously misleading.
Monarch Dismisses Allegations as Fabricated
In a statement released on Monday and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Alli Ibraheem, Oba Akanbi categorically denied any terrorist operations in Iwo. He was responding to specific reports that linked a local security group associated with the religious organization Jama’atu Ta’awunil Muslimeen to terrorist activities.
The Oluwo asserted that Iwo remains one of the most peaceful towns in South-West Nigeria, a status he credited to the efforts of the Jaysu Security Network. He characterized the allegations as a deliberate attempt to weaken the town's security apparatus by undermining this trusted local outfit.
"The media report of the existence of a terrorist group in Iwo is false and unfounded," the royal statement declared. It further explained that the Jaysu Security Network operates as an annex of Jama’atu Ta’awunil Muslimeen and works closely with the Nigerian police.
Defense of Religious Group and Security Network
Oba Akanbi came to the defense of Sheikh Dahood Imran Molaasan, the leader of Jama’atu Ta’awunil Muslimeen, portraying him as an educational philanthropist. The monarch highlighted that the group runs over 40 educational institutions in Iwo, including a College of Education and several orphanage homes, and has been active for more than two decades.
He questioned the logic of linking such a longstanding community-focused organization to terrorism. The Oluwo emphasized the critical role the Jaysu Security Network plays in maintaining peace, stating that their intimate knowledge of the area makes them effective partners for the police in apprehending criminals.
"You can move freely in Iwo at any time, including midnight," Oba Akanbi stated, underscoring the prevailing atmosphere of safety.
Warning Against Fake News and Clarification on DSS Invite
The traditional ruler issued a stern warning to individuals spreading what he termed "unfounded stories." He labeled them as "social media terrorists and bandits" and threatened legal action, asserting that necessary steps would be taken against those manufacturing tension with false information.
In a related development, the Tawu'un Movement, representing Jama’atu Ta’awunil Muslimeen, addressed reports about their leader's interaction with the Department of State Services (DSS). The group's Media Coordinator, Lookman Adeboje, confirmed that Sheikh Daood Imran was invited by the DSS but was not detained.
Adeboje explained that the invitation was for clarification regarding a viral video of a rally in support of Palestine. "We told them that the Palestine issue is a global issue and an issue of humanity, and that even the Nigerian government is supporting Palestine," he stated.
The Oluwo's firm denial and defense aim to quell fears and correct the narrative about security in Iwo, reinforcing his commitment to preserving the town's peace and reputation.
