Women invoke ancestral deities for release of Oyo kidnap victims
Scores of women traditional worshippers from across Egbaland on Friday embarked on a spiritual procession through major streets and sacred sites in Abeokuta, Ogun State, seeking divine intervention for the safe release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Clad in white traditional attire and carrying ritual paraphernalia, the women moved through prominent cultural and spiritual landmarks in Abeokuta, invoking ancestral spirits and deities to intervene in the worsening security situation and secure the victims’ release within seven days.
The spiritual exercise was led by the Yeye Olokun Agbaye and Olori of Orile-Ilawo Kingdom, Dr. Omolara Fashola-MacGregor, who described the procession as a sacred appeal to revered deities and ancestral spirits for protection over Yorubaland and the nation at large.
The traditional worshippers visited several revered sites, including the shrines at Olumo Rock, Lisabi Agbongbo-Akala, and that of the legendary Egba warrior, Sodeke, before concluding the procession at the Itoku Shrine located at Orita Aje Junction in Abeokuta, where they offered prayers.
Speaking with journalists during the exercise, Fashola-MacGregor said the initiative was borne out of deep concern for the safety of innocent schoolchildren, their teachers, and other Nigerians currently being held captive by kidnappers.
“We are here to appeal to the deities of our forefathers and the spirits of our heroes to intervene in this troubling situation. Our prayers are focused on the safe return of those who have been abducted. We believe that when people unite in faith, sincerity, and purpose, divine intervention is possible,” she said.
She stressed that traditional institutions remain critical stakeholders in promoting peace, social harmony, and communal well-being, stating “Our ancestors protected these lands and stood firmly for justice. We are invoking their blessings and protection at a time when many families are experiencing pain, fear, and uncertainty”.
The traditional worshippers also called on ancestral heroes, protective deities, and custodians of the land to intervene in the nation’s security challenges, particularly the plight of abducted citizens and the anguish faced by their families.
