Traditional Worshippers Demand New System Of Oath-Taking For Public Officials in Nigeria

Traditional worshipper

During the Isese Day celebration in Akure, Ondo State, traditional worshippers called for the adoption of traditional oath-taking for public officials in Nigeria.

The Araba Awo of Oke Agbe, Ayobami Ogedengbe, emphasized that traditional oaths, which invoke deities and ancestors as witnesses, are more potent and efficacious than the current practice of swearing on the Bible or Quran.

He argued that this method would curb corruption and abuse of power, as the fear of immediate and severe repercussions from the gods would deter officials from violating their oaths.

Ogedengbe highlighted that the existing system has loopholes that compromise integrity, whereas traditional oaths uphold it. He noted that in Yorubaland, the consequences of breaking such oaths are well understood and feared, thus ensuring adherence to one's promises.

The Araba Isese of Ondo State, Araba Folorunsho Adetunji, also advocated for August 20 to be declared a public holiday to honor Isese Day, allowing adherents to celebrate their culture and pray for the prosperity of Nigeria.

Traditional worshippers believe that integrating traditional oath-taking into the political system would restore order and integrity, as the average Yoruba person would not dare violate an oath taken before the gods.

This proposal aims to bring a new dimension to Nigeria's political landscape, reinforcing the potency of African traditional religion and its practices.