Oluwo, traditionalists head for showdown over ban on sacrifices on roads

The ban on placing sacrifices on roads in Iwo, Osun State by the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Adewale Akanbi, on Tuesday, drew the ire of the leadership of the traditionalists in the state, who told the monarch not to act against the rights of the adherents.

A statement by Oba Akanbi said placing sacrifices, especially on junctions might cause blockage of water channels, and thereafter lead to flooding.

Oba Akanbi, who said such practices, as well as Oro that usually lead to restriction of movement, would no longer be permitted within his domain, also noted that roads being public utilities should be maintained through collective efforts and patriotic dedication.

Oluwo’s statement partly read, “In addition, the practice of placing sacrifices on the road most especially junctions and blocking our rivers by dumping ritual sacrifices in them which in turn causes floods, are not equally permitted in Iwo.

“Most sacrificial offerings are placed on the road in junctions. You will see palm oil and other dirty items as offerings on the road financed by our taxpayers’ money.  A road that should be maintained through collective efforts and patriotic dedication. In advanced countries, no one will urinate even beside the road. Some individuals and corporate bodies will donate a standard road and others will go there to place sacrifice.”

Reacting to Oluwo’s stand, the President of the Traditional Religion Worshippers Association, in Osun State, Dr. Oluseyi Atanda, said Oluwo was not bigger than the government and constitution and warned the royal father not to act beyond his capacity.

Atanda said, “There is nothing we can say about it (order against the placing of sacrifices on roads) than if he has the power, himself and those supporting him, will meet the government in court.

“A dog that will go astray will not hear the hunter’s whistle. If he is more powerful than the government, it’s left for all of us to see.”