An Ogun State-based Ifa priest, Ayedun Ifadare, popularly called Agbotifayo has called on young people to reconnect with their roots and embrace their cultural heritage.
Speaking at the launching of the Agbotifayo Empire in Isara-Remo area of Ogun State, Ifadare lamented that many young people have lost touch with their culture and traditions.
This, he blamed, had a negative impact on what he called “western religion’s mentality.”
The traditionalist noted that many of the social problems facing young people, such as mental health issues, addiction, and violence, can be traced back to a lack of connection to their culture and traditions.
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He argued that foreigners now believe in the Yoruba tradition more than the original owners.
According to him, whenever traditional worshippers come forward to defend their religion, they will sue you, and there will be problems. It is only God that can help, and with our integrity, things are now changing.
He encouraged parents and elders to pass on their knowledge and traditions to the next generation, urging the youth to seek out opportunities to learn about their culture.
On the launching of the Agbotifayo Empire, the Ifa Priest said it symbolises spirituality and embodies a spiritual home to help in tackling societal issues.
“I am trying my best to promote Isese and encourage youths who are not proud of their tradition. I am coming out as a chief priest to advocate for traditional religion.
“I like what I do because if I don’t do this, it is either I become a comedian or a Yahoo boy. I like a luxurious life, and through this work, I have achieved it.
“Our ancestors had a way of living that was in harmony with nature and their community. If we can revive those traditions and teach our youth how to live a balanced and healthy life, we can help to solve many of the problems that are affecting our youth today.
“Our culture is our identity, and without it, we are lost. We need to revive our traditions and teach our youth about who we are and where we come from.
“It is my childhood dream to launch this empire as a chief priest. I have a lot of artists I am promoting and they are popular,” he said.
