Traditional worshippers push for recognition of traditional oath-taking for public officials

Traditional worshippers from Ondo State, south-west Nigeria are advocating for the formal recognition of traditional oath-taking for public officials, arguing that it is more effective and impactful than religious oaths.

They believe that, despite being sworn in with the Bible or Quran, public office holders have often engaged in corruption and abuse of power without facing consequences.

Ayobami Ogedengbe, the Araba Awo of Oke Agbe, presented this proposal during the Isese Day celebration in Akure on Tuesday. Ogedengbe argued that traditional oaths could improve accountability, as any transgressions would result in immediate and tangible repercussions.

To restore sanity and decency to public offices, Ogedengbe insisted, government should allow traditional oath-taking, adding that in Yorubaland, everyone understands the potency and consequences of violating such oaths.

According to him: “The current system in Nigeria has loopholes that compromise integrity. Our people know that the gods uphold integrity, and no Yoruba person would dare violate an oath taken before the gods.

“This will restore order in our system because an average African, especially a Yoruba person, fears the repercussions of swearing by Ogun (the god of thunder) or other traditional deities.

“They wouldn’t dare swear to something they don’t believe in. Swearing through traditional means adds to the potency of African traditional religion and its practices.”

Speaking on the occasion, the Araba Isese of Ondo State, Araba Folorunsho Adetunji, urged the Ondo government to declare August 20 a public holiday to celebrate the Isese festival.

“Isese Day is a celebration of our origins, showcasing the deeds of our ancestors, and encompassing our culture and customs,” Adetunji explained.