Aare Gani Adams, Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, has said religious bigotry would not help Nigeria to move forward and reclaim her glory.
Adams, whoholdstheposition of an apostle in the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, called on Nigerians to embrace religious tolerance and refuse to see one religionassuperiortotheother.
He said it would be helpful if Nigerians see their different religions as potent tools in advancing the nation, stressing that neglect of the promotion of indigenous culture and reverence of deities, including Olukun, can be linked to stunted economic growth in the country.
The convener of the annual Olokun Festival made the observations on Wednesday in Lagos at the special prayers for Nigeria in commemoration of the 2021 edition of the festival, adding that the pandemic prevented the event from holding last year.
Adams, who played host to leaders of the Christian, Muslim and traditional religions, led praise and prayer sessions, noted that the place of prayer cannot be overemphasized, especially in combating the killings, banditry, insecurity, fall in naira value, rising cost of living and other challenges Nigerians are presently faced with.
While addressing the Yoruba, he called on them to promote their culture. He, however, alleged that a particular traditional leader in the region has taken it upon himself to spite Yoruba deities and culture.
According to Adams, the traditional leader’s conduct was appalling as it contradicted the Yoruba tradition.
Meanwhile, Dr. Philip Abiodun, in his closing remarks, appreciated the religious leaders and participants, while praying that the tide would turn in favour of Nigeria.