Renowned cultural advocate and Ifa priest, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon, has called on governments at all levels to take active steps to preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage and traditions as a means of protecting national identity.
Speaking at the maiden edition of the Ifayemi Elebuibon Annual Symposium, held at Ogbeyonu Hall in Osogbo, the traditionalist emphasized that venerating ancestors remains a vital aspect of culture that must not be allowed to fade away.
Elebuibon noted that preserving a people’s identity requires ensuring that indigenous cultures and traditions withstand the lingering effects of colonial influence. He further urged the government to promote freedom of traditional religious practices.
“One of the reasons for this symposium is to highlight the importance of ancestral veneration and worship. Our ancestors must always be remembered if we are to make progress as a people,” he said.
He added that the Yoruba language, attire, cuisine, and way of life are integral to the culture, regardless of individual religious beliefs. According to him, incorporating cultural education into the school system would enhance economic growth and social development.
Delivering a paper at the event, Komolafe Wande underscored the importance of sustaining Yoruba language, traditional names, and attire to ensure the survival of the Yoruba race. He urged the government to make indigenous language and culture compulsory subjects in schools.
A participant, Ogundeji Elebuibon, explained that the symposium was not only to honour Araba Ifayemi Elebuibon but also to provide a platform for discussing the growth of traditional religion in Yorubaland.
The Secretary of the Isese Assembly, organisers of the event, Ifagbenusola Popoola, said the symposium aimed to celebrate Elebuibon’s contributions to the promotion of Yoruba culture and traditional religion.
Source:Africa Publicity
