Rita Odafe
Oluwo of Iwo
The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, criticizes kings who worship idols, likening them to herbalists, and suggests they step down from their throne.
He argues that deity worship is a religious practice and not a cultural tradition.
During a gathering at his palace organized by the Iwo community, the monarch revealed that monarchs from the South Western states have shown interest in joining an association he is establishing for rulers who do not partake in idol worship.
A statement from Oluwo’s Chief Press Secretary, Alli Ibrahim, obtained in Osogbo, mentioned that the monarch emphasized the association will comprise leaders who solely believe in God and warned idol worshippers to stay away from Yoruba land.
“We are here today to rectify past errors and rewrite history, promoting truth over falsehood. Part of our essence is correcting historical missteps. Although it may take time, truth stands alone. The splendor of Yoruba land will be restored. We are initiating a cultural revolution against tainted monarchy. Kings who worship idols are akin to herbalists and should relinquish their positions. We aim to purify the throne for the advancement of our land.
We have begun a movement to reclaim the sanctity of our culture. Idol worshippers must discontinue the blending of incompatible beliefs. Our cultural heritage, esteemed globally, has been tainted by idolatry. It is time to rectify our trajectory. We are committed to seeing this through to the end.”
The statement also noted that monarchs from the South Western states are prepared and eager to establish an association of Yoruba rulers who have faith solely in Olodumare.
“We are resetting the throne back to its original purpose ordained by Oduduwa, the founder of the monarchy, by instigating a cultural revolution against corrupted rulership. All deviations from Yoruba traditions will be scrutinized and rectified. A thriving Yorubaland will inspire others. We will purify and rejuvenate the institution, reinstating its former glory,” Oluwo expressed
