Aareonakakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams, underscored the significance of religion as a means to achieving God’s objectives on earth, during his speech at the 2023 Ifa Festival in Alagboole, Ogun State. He urged religious followers throughout the southwest for peace and unity.
Adams expressed his dismay over the detrimental effects of religious fanaticism, arguing that it has hampered the country’s progress and led to the loss of lives and destruction of fundamental values.
Highlighting the importance of respecting and cherishing culture and traditions like many Asian nations such as China and Japan, Adams stated that true religion often emphasizes the beauty of life, the supremacy of God, and the afterlife.
He cited the religious tolerance prevalent in Asia, outside of Indonesia, and in the 28 predominantly Christian countries of the European Union. He also mentioned the religious freedom enjoyed in the United Kingdom and the United States.
As the Chief Promoter of Olokun Festival Foundation (OFF), Adams emphasized that Islam, Christianity, and traditional worship are central to the beliefs in Nigeria. He warned about the need for moderation in the practice and preaching of these religions, discouraging the use of derogatory language and promoting the idea that all religions are beneficial to Yoruba land.
He further advised that preaching should focus on truth, unity, peace, love, and honesty, as well as the rewards for good deeds. He discouraged comparative preaching that rates one religion above another and warned against using religion to incite political tension.
The festival, attended by traditional rulers, members of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) from across Yoruba land, members of Aareonakakanfo-in-Council, and others, included prayers from religious clerics, traditional and cultural dances, and iwure by Ifa priests.
SOURCE: Nigerian Tribune
IMAGE: Enviro News Nigeria
