In a notable development that has left many citizens of Akure pondering the balance between modern governance and traditional customs, the Deji and paramount ruler of Akure kingdom, announced his annual leave and seclusion in preparation for the Ulefunta Festival, set to commence on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. This sacred period, lasting from September 24 to September 30, is integral to the spiritual and cultural fabric of Akure community. It involves numerous traditional practices, including the closing of all routes leading to the royal grounds and a ban on drums and loud sounds throughout Akure, guidelines that were officially communicated by Mr. Michael Adeyeye, Chief Press Secretary to our revered Paramount Ruler.
This period of seclusion serves as a time for the Deji to engage in profound communion with the deities, seeking blessings for the peace, prosperity, and growth of Akure kingdom and Ondo State at large. However, it has become a source of perplexity and dismay for many Akure indigenes to learn that Governor Ayedatiwa held a Night of Praise at the Akure City Town Hall on Saturday, September 27, 2024—right in the midst of the very seclusion that our revered king has embarked upon.
This situation begs a critical question: Is this a deliberate attempt to undermine our cherished customs and show disrespect towards our royal institution, considering the fact that the programme was held at the ‘backyard’ of the Deji’s palace? While we undoubtedly appreciate the spirit of such an event as a Night of Praise—an occasion meant to uplift and celebrate faith, we cannot condone actions that intentionally overlook or belittle our cultural heritage. Consequently, we must ask: Where do customs and traditions fit within the context of our Governor's administration?
As a former president of the National Association of Akure Students and the Coordinator of a prominent youth group in Ondo State, the Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN), I hold in high esteem both the divine and the foundational principles upon which our towns were established. However, the events that transpired last night must be acknowledged and addressed. It is essential that we safeguard our heritage, culture, and customs from being eroded or undermined in the name of imposed ideologies.
In a rapidly changing world, where the influence of modernity often comes at the cost of traditional values, it is imperative to remember that our customs are not mere relics of the past but essential components of our identity. They deserve respect and protection, not marginalization. It is crucial that dialogue be initiated between government officials and traditional leaders to ensure that both governance and tradition can coexist harmoniously. Our cultural practices and beliefs should not be sacrificed on the altar of political convenience, and it is our collective responsibility to stand guard over the customs that define us as a people.
Let us strive to cultivate a culture of respect and understanding within our communities, ensuring that our traditions are honored while embracing the positive aspects of modern governance. After all, it is through this balance that we can achieve true progress without losing sight of what makes us unique.
Written by:
Afe Ezekiel Adegboyega(Erosion)
Coordinator,
Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN)
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