The Oba Ìsèse of Ogun State and Chairman of the Ìsèse Kingdom Of Truth Association Of Nigeria, Oba Ifarotimi Adifagbola Balogun, called for the inclusion of African Traditional Religion studies in the national school curriculum.
A statement by the group urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to establish a National Traditional Religion Commission.
This commission would operate similarly to the Hajj and Christian Pilgrims Commission, focusing on the interests and needs of practitioners of African traditional religions.
Speaking at his Idi-Ori Palace in Abeokuta, Balogun emphasised that integrating this subject into education would help children learn about and appreciate their cultural heritage.
In addition, Oba Balogun proposed that August 20 be designated as a national holiday for traditional worshippers to celebrate the Ìsèse festival across the country.
He commended South-West governors, particularly Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, for recognising August 20 as a public holiday for Ìsèse Day.
He also acknowledged similar recognitions by governors of Lagos, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and other states.
“The inclusion of African traditional religion in our education system is crucial for the growth and unity of our nation and continent,” Oba Balogun said.
He underscored the importance of education in preserving and promoting cultural heritage, noting that traditional religion was a foundational practice that should be celebrated and taught.
