The Ogun State Government has charged traditional worshippers across the State to embrace unity, promote peaceful coexistence with other faithfuls, in order to collectively strengthening security and sustain stability in the state
Governor Dapo Abiodun made the call during this year’s ISESE Day celebrations at the June 12 Cultural Center, Kuto, Abeokuta, organised by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in collaboration with ISESE PARAPO, Ogun State, with the theme: “The Role of Traditional Practitioners in Securing the Society”.
Governor Abiodun who was represented by the State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Oluwasesan, stressed the importance of unity among traditionalists, saying the government was committed to ensuring that our culture and heritage were preserved and maintained in accordance with the traditions
He stated that traditionalists needed to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing efforts aimed at sustaining adequate security in the State
Abiodun urged them to utilize the occasion to further promote Ogun State rich cultural heritage, as they remained custodian of culture, while respecting the beliefs and rights of other religions as they remained the custodians of culture
He advised them to promote peace and continue to appear as role model to younger generations
He noted that ISESE Day remained a significant annual celebration of Yoruba indigenous culture, spirituality and traditions, added that the observance of the day had provided an opportunity for traditional worshippers to honour their heritage and reflect on enduring values such as peace, communal responsibilities and reverence for ancestors.
He therefore admonished traditionalists to support initiatives targeted at addressing insecurity, noting that the responsibility of maintaining peace and order is a collective duty of all residents
Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Qudus Yusuff, congratulated leaders of ISESE PARAPO, Ogun State and their members for the successful hosting of its second edition since the State government declared Isese Day an annual event.
He acknowledged the importance of culture as a powerful instrument in promoting unity, peace, responsible citizenship and sustainable development, while he also appealed to stakeholders to support the government and security agencies by providing useful information and remaining vigilant in their communities.
In his keynote address, High Chief Solagbade Popoola, PhD, spoke extensively on the ‘Roles of Traditional Practitioners in Securing the Society’, saying the theme was timely as security is not the responsibility of the government and conventional security agencies alone.
Chief Solagbade, stated that traditional practitioners had been custodians of indigenous knowledge, customs and values for generations and had played significant roles in maintaining order, resolving disputes and promoting peaceful coexistence between communities long before the existence of other religions
He added that traditional practitioners could promote security by encouraging values such as honesty, respect for elders, responsibility and respect for human life.
He charged practitioners to reject the use of traditional beliefs and practices that could facilitate criminal activities, just as he urged them to report any individual who might likely use the name of tradition or spirituality to promote kidnapping, violence, fraud, intimidation or other criminal acts
In their separate reactions, the Oba of ISESE, Ogun State, Oba Ifarotimi Adifagbola and the former Chairman of ISESE PARAPO, Ogun State, Chief Falola Durokifa, both appreciated the Ogun State Government for recognizing the roles and importance of ISESE Day and providing an avenue for traditional practitioners to celebrate and promote their cultural heritage
According to them, the celebration should go beyond ceremonies and festivals and should become an opportunity for reflection on the responsibilities of traditional practitioners in the society.
They further advocated for mutual respect among adherents of African Traditional Religion, Christianity and Islam, stressing that religious and cultural diversity should be a source of strength rather than division
The celebration featured traditional prayers, cultural displays, music, drama and other activities aimed at showcasing the richness of Yoruba indigenous heritage.
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