By Damiete Braide

Believers of other religions have been enjoined to stop abusing Elegbera by calling the popular deity the devil.

Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba land, Chief Gani Adams, made this appeal during the Elegbera Festival which held at Shasha, Lagos State, last week, themes “Elegbera: Celebrating the Most Vilified Deity in the World.” 

Iba Gani Adams in his welcome address said: “Believers of other religions have set us against the deities through religion and civilisation. Nigeria is the most affected by their unfounded deceit. The country is in a terrible situation with the way we treat our deities, and that is why we are where we are today.

“There is no country in the world that has abused Elegbera as much as Nigeria. Each time we speak ill of Elegbera, he destroys our economy and other institutions in the country. The more we abuse Elegbera, the more he brings untold hardship to the country and we experience more pain and anguish.”

He also told the gathering that “Elegbera Festival is unique, because the deity we are celebrating is at the centre of everything that we do in life. Elegbera is everywhere and he is always available as the leading deities in the world. 

The chief promoter of Olokun Festival Foundation revealed that, in the course of his research, he found out that Elegbera had been misunderstood as the devil or Esu in Yoruba land. “But, in reality, Elegbera is a deity, it is not satanic or devilish in nature; rather, he is the king of all spirits in the world. We can also call him the Olori Aye, because he is always in charge of the entire world. 

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The National Coordinator, OPC Worldwide, reiterated that both the Bible and Quran were very clear about the role of Elegbera in the creation of life and man. 

The Yoruba Generalissimo, Aare Gani Adams, added: “Even if you don’t believe in Elegbera, don’t denigrate him; don’t abuse him because he has an enduring relationship with God, who is creator of heaven and earth. 

“As Yoruba culture promoters, it is our duty to correct the wrong impression about this dirty. I am an advocate of peace. I preach religious tolerance, and that is why I am saying this for posterity,” he concluded. 

Royal host, Oba Babatunde Nasiru Lawal, (Ariwajoye/Akinlowo), Oba of Shasha Kingdom, prayed for the people, urging them to reverence Elegbera, and not denigrate him.

OPC band members, Malaika, a Fuji musician, Young professor and other up-and-coming comedians thrilled the audience with their songs and jokes. 

The occasion was graced by both Christian and Muslim faithful, who prayed for the peace and progress of the country. During the festival, traders made brisk sales of their wares.