- Obasanjo affirms respect for Ifa while being a Christian, highlighting the importance of preserving authentic Yoruba cultural traditions and heritage
- He urges Nigerians to excel in their craft and warns against relegating indigenous languages, food, and cultural practices
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said that while he is a Christian, he holds Ifa, the Yoruba traditional divination system, in high regard.
Ifa, a system rooted in Yoruba culture, involves intricate texts and mathematical formulas. It is revered as the deity of wisdom and intellectual development among traditional Yoruba worshippers.
Obasanjo made this statement in Abeokuta, Ogun State, while hosting renowned female talking drummer Olamuyiwa Aralola, popularly known as Ara, on her 50th birthday. The event was held at the Green Legacy Hotel and Resort within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL).
He emphasized the importance of preserving African cultural heritage, particularly Yoruba traditions, which he described as “authentic.”
“We must preserve our culture,” Obasanjo said. “Ara is a cultural ambassador who has broken barriers by excelling in an art once considered exclusive to men—playing the talking drum. She has not only succeeded but is mentoring young talents to carry on this legacy.”
Reflecting on societal changes, Obasanjo noted, “When I was younger, there were two things women were not expected to do: climb palm trees and play the talking drum. Ara has broken those taboos and excelled in her craft.”
Obasanjo urged everyone to excel in their endeavors, saying, “Whatever you find your hands doing, do it well. Whether dancing, playing football, or anything else, do it to the best of your ability.”
He also expressed concern over the diminishing role of Yoruba culture, warning against neglecting indigenous languages, food, and attire.
“Our culture must not be relegated,” he said. “Yoruba is not vernacular—it is authentic. We must safeguard it.”
Obasanjo affirmed that being a Christian does not conflict with valuing cultural heritage. “I attended two church services today, but I will never forget my culture. If anyone says Ifa is nothing, they are a fool. Before Christianity and Islam, we had Ifa Orunmila, which teaches us that only heaven knows who will be saved.”
Ara thanked Obasanjo for honoring her and spoke about her early beginnings with the talking drum at her father’s palace in Ondo. She urged parents to prioritize the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.
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