The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has urged the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrashed Akanbi, to re-learn Yoruba history following his statement claiming that idol worshipping is not part of Yoruba culture.
In a statement to VANGUARD, ICIR President Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode emphasized the need for the monarch to educate himself and his chiefs about the true origins and significance of Yoruba culture, tradition, and religion.
Fakayode expressed disappointment that Oba Abdulrashed, who should be a custodian of Yoruba culture, has instead become a proponent of foreign cultures while disparaging Yoruba traditions.
He criticized the Oluwo's attempt to rewrite Yoruba history to fit a foreign agenda, stating, "It is unfortunate that people who are supposed to be custodians of the culture and tradition of a race are becoming soldiers of another race at the expense of their race. It is like Oluwo is propagating Arabian culture and demonizing Yoruba tradition and religion.”
Fakayode highlighted that Òrìṣà worship is inseparable from Yoruba culture and tradition, adding, "Nobody can separate Òrìṣà worship from Yorùbá culture and tradition and vice versa because they are products of each other." He clarified that worshipping Olodumare through the Òrìṣà is not idol worship but an intrinsic part of Yoruba tradition.
Fakayode also pointed out the hypocrisy in practicing a foreign religion while denigrating one's indigenous religion and culture. He reminded the Oluwo and his followers of the importance of religious freedom and urged them to respect the traditional beliefs of the Yoruba people.
The ICIR concluded by advising the Oluwo to focus on his chosen religion without disparaging Yoruba Indigenous Religion and culture.