Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has openly declared his deep respect for Yoruba culture, specifically the Ifa divination system, despite his Christian faith. Speaking passionately at an event held in his Ogun State residence, Obasanjo emphasized the importance of cultural preservation, particularly among the Yoruba people, stating that certain elements of tradition should not be sidelined in the face of modernity.
The event, which marked the 50th birthday of the famous talking drummer Olamuyiwa Aralola, widely known as Ara, brought together cultural enthusiasts, traditionalists, and public figures. Obasanjo’s remarks came as he hosted Ara at the Green Legacy Hotel and Resort within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
In a strong statement, the former president said, “I am a Christian. I attend two churches today, but that does not mean I should forget my culture. Anyone who says Ifa is nothing is a big fool,” drawing attention to his deep commitment to both his faith and his heritage.
The Ifa system, widely respected among Yoruba communities, is seen as a spiritual and intellectual tool for guidance, containing a vast collection of sacred knowledge and mathematical formulas. It plays a significant role in shaping the worldview of millions of people in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria. For Obasanjo, despite the strong Christian background he practices, Ifa represents a piece of history too significant to disregard.
Cultural Preservation as a Priority
At the event, Obasanjo used Ara’s achievements as a beacon of cultural pride. The renowned talking drummer, who has become a leading female figure in a tradition historically dominated by men, was honored for her contributions to preserving Yoruba cultural practices. Ara, who began learning to play the talking drum at age 10 in her father’s palace in Ondo, has broken significant cultural barriers and become an inspiration for young girls across the region.
Obasanjo praised Ara for her groundbreaking efforts, stating, “Ara is a woman of culture. She has broken the taboo that restricted women from playing the talking drum, a role once considered solely for men. She has excelled in this, and more importantly, she is passing on her knowledge to the next generation.”
The former president also reflected on how traditional norms had evolved over time. “When I was growing up, there were two things you could not imagine a woman doing—climbing a palm tree and playing the talking drum. But Ara has shattered both barriers with grace and excellence. She exemplifies what it means to do something well, no matter what it is.”
This sentiment echoed Obasanjo’s belief that Nigerians, particularly the Yoruba, must commit to doing everything with excellence, no matter the tradition or profession. He drew parallels with sports, where once, parents would discourage their children from playing football, a notion that has since changed with football becoming an accepted and celebrated part of Nigerian life. “If you’re a dancer, dance well. If you’re a footballer, play well. Whatever your hands find to do, do it excellently.”
Emphasizing Cultural Pride
While he encouraged young people to strive for excellence, Obasanjo also urged for greater awareness of cultural erosion. He warned against the sidelining of African languages, traditions, and food in the face of globalization. “We must not joke with our culture. We are being relegated to the background, and we cannot allow our heritage to fade. Yoruba is not vernacular, and we must keep it alive,” he said firmly.
Obasanjo’s message was clear: the Yoruba people, and indeed all Nigerians, must preserve and protect their culture in the face of external pressures that might dilute or overshadow their identity. He reminded the gathering that cultural pride is not just a matter of tradition but also of intellectual and spiritual integrity.
“Ifa is part of our heritage,” Obasanjo continued. “Before Christianity and Islam, there was Ifa, and we must honor that. Ifa Orunmila is a symbol of wisdom, and as Yoruba people, we must never forget its significance. It is Heaven that knows who will be saved,” he explained, referring to the deep spiritual connection of Ifa that transcends mere religious affiliation.
Ara’s Gratitude and Call to Action
In response to Obasanjo’s tribute, Ara expressed her gratitude, thanking the former president for his support and recognizing his unwavering commitment to the Yoruba culture. She spoke candidly about her own journey and the importance of preserving such traditions for future generations. “I started playing the talking drum when I was just 10 years old in my father’s palace. It was not easy, but I was determined to continue this tradition. I encourage all parents to help preserve our culture, as it is part of who we are.”
Ara also stressed the importance of ensuring that younger generations are actively involved in keeping cultural practices alive. “It’s not enough to admire culture; we must teach it. I hope my work will inspire young girls, especially, to pursue cultural activities without fear of judgment.”
A Delicate Balance of Faith and Tradition
Obasanjo’s comments on Ifa have sparked a discussion among many Nigerians regarding the relationship between Christianity, Islam, and indigenous belief systems. For many, his statement about respecting Ifa despite his Christian beliefs highlights a delicate balance between faith and heritage. The Yoruba culture, rich in history and spiritual depth, faces ongoing challenges in the modern world, with many young people gravitating towards Western influences.
Yet, for leaders like Obasanjo, the preservation of cultural identity is not negotiable. As a statesman who has led Nigeria through significant transitions, Obasanjo’s call to action serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural self-awareness in an increasingly globalized world.
The event concluded with Obasanjo reaffirming his stance on cultural preservation and his personal commitment to Yoruba traditions. “We must keep our heritage alive. If we don’t, who will?” he asked rhetorically.
