AFRICAN TRADITIONAL RELIGION WORSHIPPERS CALL FOR MORAL REBIRTH

AFRICAN TRADITIONAL RELIGION WORSHIPPERS CALL FOR MORAL REBIRTH

Concerned by the current state of the nation, rising spate of insecurity, and the growing involvement of many youths in social vices such as cultism, gangsterism, drug abuse, and other destructive activities, the Association of African Traditional Religion Worshippers of Nigeria and Overseas (AATREN) has made a passionate clarion call for moral rebirth, peace, and national progress.

This appeal came during the Association’s monthly prayer gathering held in Ìlasàn,Ikate, Lagos, under the distinguished leadership of its President, Prince Adesegun Elegushi, the Opemoluwa of Ikate Kingdom. Addressing members and well-wishers, Prince Elegushi expressed deep concern over the challenges facing Nigeria and urged young people across the country to channel their energy into productive ventures, entrepreneurship, education, skills acquisition, and legitimate professions.

He advised the youths to remain focused, disciplined, and determined to succeed, stressing that the future of Nigeria rests largely on their shoulders. According to Prince Adesegun, involvement in criminality and anti-social behaviour only destroys destinies, weakens families, and threatens national development. 

He therefore encouraged young Nigerians to rise above negative influences and become shining examples in their communities.

As part of the spiritual exercise, the Association also offered fervent prayers to the territorial ancestors of Yorubaland, seeking divine intervention for peace, unity, and a smooth transition of power in Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. Members prayed for wisdom for leaders, stability in governance, and continued harmony among all ethnic and religious groups in the country.

The First Vice President of the Association and the Ìyá Òṣun of Lagos Mainland, Chief Mrs. Folusho Adeogun Ọgá, also led special prayers and atonement rites on behalf of the children and youths of the nation. 

She passionately prayed that they be protected from diseases, epidemics, and all dangers often associated with the harsh dry season and changing weather conditions.

A major highlight of the gathering came when Ifá, during consultation, instructed that special prayers and divination should be performed for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. 

The directive though surprised many in attendance, yet it was received with reverence and sincerity as a sign of spiritual responsibility and patriotism.

Without delay, the sacred consultation was carried out by two respected senior Ifá priests, Chief Ademola Fabunmi and Chief Kehinde Anipupo, who offered prayers for divine guidance, protection, wisdom, sound health, and success for the President in steering the affairs of the nation during these challenging times.

The Association noted that leadership requires courage, sacrifice, and vision, and therefore prayed that President Tinubu be granted the strength and clarity needed to continue implementing policies that would bring economic recovery, improved security, employment opportunities, and lasting prosperity to Nigerians.

Among dignitaries present at the gathering were the Baálẹ̀ of Oyingbo, High Chief Adegboyega Junaid, and the Odòfin of Àjiràn Land, High Chief Nurudeen Odofin, alongside several ither traditional leaders, elders, and devotees.

The event once again demonstrated AATREN’s unwavering commitment not only to the preservation of African Traditional Religion and Yoruba cultural heritage, but also to national unity, youth development, peaceful coexistence, and prayers for the progress of Nigeria.

Observers described the gathering as a timely reminder that beyond politics and policies, the moral guidance of elders, cultural institutions, and spiritual stakeholders remains vital in building a stronger, safer, and more prosperous nation.