By Lukman Olabiyi
In recent months, Nigeria has witnessed a burgeoning movement among practitioners of traditional religion, advocating for formal recognition of their spiritual practices. This campaign seeks to establish a National Traditional Religion Commission, mirroring the structures that support Islamic and Christian pilgrimage, such as the National Hajj Commission and the National Christian Pilgrims Commission.
Notable figures from the South West of Nigeria, including the influential Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, and Chief Ifasegun Elegushi, the president of the Association of African Tradition Religion Practitioners of Nigeria (AATREN), have been at the forefront of this advocacy.
Their push for recognition underscores the significant role traditional religion plays in Nigeria’s cultural and spiritual fabric.
The proposed National Traditional Religion Commission aims to offer similar support and regulation for traditional spiritual practices as its counterparts for Islamic and Christian pilgrims.
Advocates believe that such a commission would not only preserve and promote their beliefs but also ensure proper management and support for practitioners.
Central to their advocacy is the call for the inclusion of African traditional religion studies in school curricula.
The proponents argued that integrating these teachings would honor Nigeria’s diverse heritage and educate future generations about their ancestral beliefs.
They contend that the absence of traditional religion in educational content undermines cultural continuity and identity.
According to them, by embedding these teachings into the curriculum, children would gain a deeper understanding of their heritage, fostering pride and a sense of continuity.
In addition to educational reforms, Chief Elegushi proposed that August 20 be officially designated as a national holiday for traditional worshippers.
This proposal aims to provide a dedicated day for practitioners to celebrate and openly practice their faith, similar to the recognition given to other religious celebrations.
The recent declaration by Ogun, Osun, Oyo, and Lagos state governments of August 20 as a work-free day has been hailed as a significant step forward.
However, Adams has also urged the governors of Ondo and Ekiti states to follow suit.
He suggested that these states could commemorate August 20 as their own Heritage Day, drawing inspiration from international celebrations of cultural heritage.
Adams said the governors of the two states should toe the path of progress by restoring the hope of the traditional believers in the states.
“Ekiti and Ondo states have many things in common. However, the two states can celebrate August 20 as the states’ Heritage Day.
“For instance, the International Day for Monuments and Sites also known as World Heritage Day is an international day holding on 18 April each year around the world, with different types of activities, including visits to monuments and heritage sites and conferences.
“All over the world, people gather to celebrate their heritage. Developed countries in Europe, America, Asia and even in Africa celebrate World Heritage Day as a mark of honour and respect for their culture, tradition and identities.
“For instance, the European Heritage Days take place in the 50 signatory countries to the European Cultural Convention. It is organized every September of every year.
“In France, the Heritage Days take place every year around the 3rd weekend of September. It is an opportunity for the French to rediscover the culture of the country.
“In Asia, Heritage Day is a month- long celebration of the existence and legacy of individuals with origins in the South Asian.
“Countries like Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives usually celebrate the Heritage Day in grand style.
“Also in Africa, Heritage Day is a major celebration across Africa”, he said.
Speaking further, Adams said September 24 of every year is a special day in South Africa.
He noted that South Africans usually recognise and celebrate the Heritage Day to celebrate the cultural wealth of their nation.
“They celebrate the day annually by remembering the cultural heritage of the many cultures that make up the population of South Africa”, he added.
He stated that in Rwanda, Kwita Izina is one of the most popular festivals in Rwanda, held that many travelers who attended the Kwita Izina Festival also do embarked on captivating journey to explore the beauty of the country.
According to him, heritages represent the beauty of a country. And do not make them dirty. A nation without heritage is like a tree without root. We can celebrate the World Heritage Day by visiting a heritage sites and monuments.
“As we celebrate Iseese day. We are celebrating our heritage, culture and identity. This will allow the believers and adherents of traditional religion the opportunity to have a sense of belonging.
And they would be glad to practise their religion in good faith without any hindrances”, he said.