The reigning Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, has issued a strict decree against the practice of traditional sacrifices to deities within his domain. In a video that has since gone viral, the monarch also forbids the annual Oro festival, a significant event for traditional religion adherents in the area.
Oba Akanbi went a step further, stating that violators of this edict caught with sacrificial items would be compelled to consume their offerings. His subjects were tasked with reporting and bringing to his palace any individual found partaking in the Oro festival or similar activities.
The king’s firm stand is based on the belief that only God can guarantee peace and tranquility in Iwo, dismissing the influence of deities or gods. He expressed his disdain for sacrifices, declaring they do not contribute to the town’s peace.
The monarch also expressed his disapproval of traditional practices such as pouring palm oil or salt on the ground or into the river at Odo Oba. He implored his subjects to report such incidents and ensure the immediate clean-up of any mess made.
SOURCE: The Guardian
IMAGE: Within Nigeria
