Traditional worshippers in Ondo State have called on the government to introduce traditional oath-taking for political officeholders in Nigeria. They believe that using traditional oaths for politicians would help reduce corruption and prevent the misuse of power.
During the Isese Day celebration in Akure yesterday (Tuesday, August 20), the Araba Awo of Oke Agbe, Ayobami Ogedengbe, argued that traditional oaths could bring a significant change to the political landscape, insisting that the practice would help restore integrity in governance, as many Nigerians, particularly the Yoruba, deeply understand the serious consequences of breaking a traditional oath.
“The current system in Nigeria has loopholes that undermine integrity. Our people know that the gods demand honesty, and no Yoruba person would dare violate an oath taken before the gods,” Ogedengbe stated.
“This approach could bring order to our system because the average African, especially a Yoruba person, fears the repercussions of swearing by Ogun (the god of thunder) or other traditional deities.
“They wouldn’t take such an oath lightly. Traditional oath-taking enhances the power of African traditional religion and its practices. The common practice of using the Bible in Christianity or the Quran in Islam for oaths has not been effective in bringing out the best in our leaders.”
Araba Isese of Ondo State, Araba Folorunsho Adetunji, who also spoke during the event, urged the state government to declare August 20th a public holiday to commemorate Isese Day, as is done in other South-Western States.
He emphasized that the holiday would provide an opportunity for Isese adherents to come together, connect with their creator, and pray for the prosperity of Nigeria, Ondo State, and their families.
“Isese Day celebrates our origins, highlighting the deeds of our ancestors and encompassing our culture and customs,” Adetunji explained, calling for traditionalists to be accorded the same respect as followers of other religions as they also play a vital role in the development of the state and the country.
