In a move to preserve and promote African traditional religion, a renowned Ifa priest, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon, has inaugurated a state-of-the-art traditional worshippers’ temple in Osogbo, Osun State.
The edifice, named “Ile Ajuba Idin Ileke Temple,” was commissioned on Tuesday at a grand ceremony in the Atelewo area of the state, with an estimated cost of over N200m.
During the inauguration, Chief Elebuibon passionately advocated for the Federal Government to officially recognise African traditional religion for its potential to generate significant revenue for the country and solidify its cultural identity.
“The Federal Government must recognise African Traditional Religion, it is our only means of cultural identity. Besides, if it is properly recognised, it can generate revenue in billions of dollars into the country.
“This building is the first of its kind in the country, it is our moderate contribution to traditional religion with a view to enriching our heritage as a people.”
The Treasurer of the Building Committee, Ogundeji Elebuibon, explained: “We raised funds for this project through donations by adherents of traditional religion in the state and beyond. We have godchildren all over the globe and they all contributed money and send to us. We spent about N200m on this project and the construction work was completed within 22 months.”
The Head of Peers of Heaven (Egbe Emere), Chief Oyelola Ajibola, emphasised the importance of having a dedicated place of worship for traditional believers.
“With this kind of place of worship, we won’t lose more members to Western religion,” Ajibola said, adding, “It is important for us to have a place where we can worship Olodumare. It will keep our members together. We have our worship on Saturdays from 10 am to 12 pm.”