AATREN RAISES CONCERN OVER NEFARIOUS ACTIVITIES OF IMPOSTORS
The Association for African Traditional Religion Practitioners, Nigeria and Overseas (AATREN) under the leadership of Chief Ifasegun Elegushi has raised concern over the growing activities of individuals and groups allegedly parading themselves as traditional rulers and falsely representing African Traditional Religion for personal gain in Lagos State.
The association frowned at the increasing trend of certain associations adopting the revered title of “Oba” while appearing in the full paraphernalia of recognized monarchs despite lacking lawful recognition from the appropriate traditional and government authorities.
Chief Elegushi described the development as a threat to the sanctity, dignity, and authority of traditionally recognized Obas, warning that such actions could create confusion within communities and erode public respect for traditional institutions.
The association also condemned the activities of some individuals who disguise themselves as practitioners of African Traditional Religion in markets and public places to beg members of the public for money, stressing that such behaviour is contrary to the ethics, discipline, and sacred values of Isese practice.
The issues were discussed during the association’s monthly meeting attended by members from different branches and communities, where leaders and members deliberated extensively on ways to preserve the dignity and true image of African Traditional Religion.
Ifasegun Elegushi called on government and the public to collaborated with AATREN to put an end to these various practices that paint the Atlfrican traditional religion in a bad light.
Speaking during the meeting, the First Vice President of AATREN, Chief Mrs. Folusho Adeogun-Oga, appealed to practitioners of African Traditional Religion to remain united and continue to uphold the virtues of peace and love.
She stated that Isese is a religion built on peace, tolerance, and genuine love for one another, noting that practitioners must continue to coexist peacefully and support one another irrespective of differences.
Chief Adeogun-Oga further enjoined practitioners to assist one another, show love to their neighbours, and maintain the spirit of tolerance and unity which, according to her, has always been a defining attribute of the religion.
“Love covers all. As practitioners of African Traditional Religion, we must continue to come together as one and promote peace, harmony, and mutual understanding in our communities,” she said.
Responding on behalf of members at the meeting, Chief Garuba thanked the leadership of the association for what he described as a commendable and exemplary leadership style.
He urged members across different communities to ensure that African Traditional Religion is positively portrayed in their various domains and families through their conduct, activities, and personal character.
Chief Garuba noted that practitioners have a collective responsibility to protect the image of Isese by living exemplary lives capable of inspiring respect and acceptance for the religion within society.
He also encouraged members to remain committed to the ideals of unity, discipline, peace, and cultural preservation, stressing that the future and recognition of African Traditional Religion depend largely on the actions and behaviour of its practitioners.
0 Comments