In a landmark development for African Traditional Religion (ATR) in Nigeria, a prominent Ifa priest, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon, has called for official government recognition of ATR.
This demand comes amidst the unveiling of a new N200 million temple dedicated to traditional worship in Osogbo.
The unveiling ceremony, held on Tuesday, showcased the impressive Idin Ileke Temple, located in the Atelewo Area of Osogbo.
Designed to serve as a central location for weekly worship and various traditional ceremonies, the temple boasts a spacious hall equipped with solar panels.
Designated areas within the hall cater to the specific needs of worshippers performing rites of atonement.
Weekly services are planned for Saturdays, creating a designated time and space for adherents to come together.
Chief Elebuibon emphasized the enduring nature of ATR, highlighting its role as a unifying force for African people long before the arrival of other religions on the continent.
He passionately argued for government recognition of ATR, stating, “The Federal Government must recognize that the African Traditional Religion is our only means of cultural identity.”
He went beyond cultural significance, proposing that official recognition could unlock economic potential, generating “billions of dollars” for the Nigerian economy.
The completion of the Idin Ileke Temple marks a significant milestone. Chief Elebuibon proudly declared, “This building is the first of its kind in the country.”
He described the temple as “our moderate contribution to traditional religion with a view to enriching our heritage as a people.”
Ogundeji Elebuibon, representing the temple’s building committee, provided insight into the project’s funding.
He revealed that the N200 million structure was brought to life through the collective effort of traditionalists within Osun State and their apprentices residing abroad.
Serving as the committee’s treasurer, Chief Elebuibon elaborated, “We raised funds for this project through donations by adherents of traditional religion in the state and beyond. We have godchildren all over the globe and they all contribute money and send to us.”
Construction of the temple was completed within an impressive 22-month timeframe.
Beyond its architectural significance, Chief Elebuibon sees the temple as a tool for preserving and strengthening the ATR community.
He expressed hope that the temple would serve as a deterrent against “losing more members to Western religion.”
He emphasized the importance of a dedicated space “where we can worship Olodumare [the Yoruba creator God].”
Weekly Saturday services, held from 10:00 am to noon, aim to solidify the temple’s role as a unifying centre for worshippers.
In his closing remarks, Chief Elebuibon extended an olive branch, urging “Kwara Muslims and Isese devotees [devotees of a Yoruba religion venerating natural spirits] to allow peace to reign” in the ongoing case of activist Adegbola Abdulazeez (also known as Tani Olohun).
Abdulazeez was arrested in August 2023 and faces charges of insulting the Emir of Ilorin and prominent Muslim clerics.
Chief Elebuibon’s plea for peace underscores the importance of interfaith harmony amidst the celebration of ATR’s growing visibility.
