Oluwo seeks end to rituals violating human rights

The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdurasheed Akanbi

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Oluwo of Iwo in Osun State, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has called on the Nigeria Police to support the abolition of what he described as barbaric and unconstitutional cultural practices that endanger public safety and infringe on citizens’ rights.

The monarch made the call in Ikeja, Lagos State, while unveiling “Diary of an Audacious Reformer,” a book written in honour of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, by veteran journalist and Razornews Chief Executive Officer, Sunday Odita.

The book chronicles Egbetokun’s rise through the ranks and highlights reforms credited with boosting efficiency within the police force.

Speaking during a panel session on “Institutional Collaboration as a Tool for Counter-Terrorism and Crime,” Oba Akanbi urged security agencies to help curb cultural practices such as forced movement restrictions during festivals, activities of secret societies, and the defiling of traditional shrines through crude rituals.

He argued that many of these practices violated human rights and had no place in a modern society.

He said, “The old dark days of restricting people’s movements under certain cultural rites are gone forever in my kingdom, Iwo.

“I do not allow that. Security agencies should cooperate to checkmate this madness.

“Of what moral and constitutional justification is the restriction of people’s movement in the name of cultural rites in the 21st century?”

The monarch, known for his outspoken advocacy for cultural reform, also condemned practices he said dishonour ancestral deities such as Sango, Ogun, and Oya.

“Our forefathers are heroes. They should be honoured with nice fragrances and flowers, not oil and blood. They are cursing those desecrating their shrines,” he added.

Oba Akanbi said his campaign against mental slavery and harmful traditions required urgent support from law enforcement agencies.

He further called for mutual respect among Nigeria’s ethnic groups, stressing that no one chose the tribe they belonged to.

“I didn’t choose to be Yoruba. So also is the Igbo, Fulani, or Hausa man. The tribe we belong to is God’s decision. Let us see one another as one to build a more united entity,” he said.

Oluwo commended Egbetokun for what he described as “reform-driven leadership” and efforts to strengthen the country’s security architecture.

The IGP was represented at the event by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh.

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