Osun Isese worshippers advocate traditional oath taking for public office holders

From Lateef Dada, Osogbo

Traditionalists in Osun State have reiterated the need to enforce political office holders to take oath of office traditionally if bad governance will end in Nigeria.

The President, Traditional Religion Worshipers Association (TRAWSO), Dr Oluseyi Atanda, stated this at the 2024 Isese Day in Osogbo, the state capital, yesterday.

He maintained that good governance must start from the local government and traditional oath taking must be compulsory for all office holders.

“We also implore that in line with the End Bad Governance initiative, after the local government election, our elected councillors and chairmen should take a traditional oath of office as an example of Good Governance Initiative.

“We are living example that traditional oath taking does not kill but allows one to be mindful of one’s responsibilities.”

Atanda also added that the body of traditionalist will explore all legal and legislative means to achieve and ensure that the process of Oba selection and role of Obas goes back to the olden days for the betterment of all.

Governor Ademola Adeleke, said efforts are on to put in place a committee that will see to the dispute among Christians, Muslim and traditional worshippers in the state.

He said the committee will be an advisory body and would advise him on religious matters with a view to avoid crisis and settle dispute among religious adherents.

Represented by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Rasheed Aderibigbe, promised to give all religions their dues without fear or favour.

“Our government is one that adheres to the laws of the county.The law in Nigeria gives everyone the liberty to choose and practice his/her own religion.

“Being the governor of the state, he’s a father of three. Just like he respects Christianity and Islam, he also respects traditionalism because everyone has the right to practice his/her own religion.

“However, in the case of dispute the governor will form a committee which will comprise the three religions. The committee will put thoughts and ideas together and serve as an advisory body to the governor on issues of religion. The committee will be formed very soon,” Adeleke said.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi who was represented by Agboluaje of Agbaje-Ife, Oba Adekunle Adebowale, tasked TRAWSO members to conduct more researches into the Yoruba tradition so as to show case its uniqueness which wil make it difficult to make derogatory comments about it.