Traditional worshippers are calling for a revamped oath-taking system for public officials, proposing the use of indigenous practices to enhance accountability and integrity in governance.
In south-west Nigeria’s Ondo State, adherents of traditional religions are calling for recognition of the potency and efficacy of their oath-taking rituals as compared to those associated with other faiths. Specifically, they believe that public officials should be allowed to swear oaths using traditional methods.
Their argument was that despite being sworn into office with the Bible for Christians and Quran for Muslims, public officials have continued to engage in corruption and abuse of power over time without facing any consequences.
During the Isese Day celebration in Akure, Araba Awo of Oke Agbe – Ayobami Ogedengbe recommended traditional oath-taking as a means to alter current practices and enhance the system’s efficiency. As per his explanation, this method ensures that penalties are executed quickly after an offence has been committed.
Ogedengbe emphasized that the inclusion of traditional oath-taking is essential to bring back order and morality in public institutions. He further stated that in Yorubaland, everyone comprehends the effectiveness and aftermaths of dishonoring such oaths.
He believes that the existing system in Nigeria contains weak spots which undermine its integrity. The population is well aware of the fact that upholding one’s integrity is paramount, as evidenced by their belief in deities who are guardians of such virtues. Therefore, no individual from the Yoruba community would dare to break an oath made before these gods.
Restoring order in our system will be achieved since the majority of Africans, particularly those belonging to Yoruba ethnicity, are apprehensive about invoking Ogun (the deity associated with thunder) or other traditional gods.
It is unlikely for them to vow allegiance to something they do not have faith in. The incorporation of conventional methods of swearing enhances the effectiveness and significance of African traditional religion as well as its customs.
During the event, Araba Folorunsho Adetunji – the Araba Isese of Ondo State – urged local authorities to designate August 20 a public holiday in honor of the Isese festival.
Adetunji clarified that Isese Day is an occasion to honor our heritage, highlighting the achievements of our forefathers and embracing our traditions and way of life.
