Traditionalists demand equal rights with Christians, Muslims

Traditionalists demand equal rights with Christians, Muslims

A coalition of traditionalists have called on the government to acknowledge their religion by giving them the same recognition given to Muslims and Christians.

According to the Nation, the traditional religion adherents made this call on Thursday during a news briefing held in Ibadan to announce the 2023 World Annual Ifa Festival.

Prominent among those who spoke at the event were the Araba/Olu Isese of Ibadanland, High Chief Ifalare Odegbemi Odegbola; Araba/Oluwo of Oyo, High Chief Faleye Kusaanu; Araba of Oka Akoko in Ondo State, Chief Adewale Oso and Jagunmolu Awo Agbaye, Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode.

While stating that they had not in any way condemned or wage war against any religion, the traditional religion faithful stressed that they need to be identified and enjoy the benefits the Muslims and Christians enjoyed.

“We implore our monarchs to promote the traditional religion, which is the basis of their crowns.

“The World Annual Ifa Festival began two weeks ago with activities, including pilgrimage to our sacred shrines and grooves in Ekiti State. Activities in Ile-Ife will commence on June 1 and the grand finale will hold on June 3 at Oke Itase, Ile-Ife, Osun State.

“The new year Ifa divination will be cast in the early hours of June 4, which is the first day in Yoruba calendar.”