The Kaaarọ Oòjíire Ọmọ Oòduà Foundation (KOOOF) has strongly condemned the persistent misconception among Nigerians, especially Yoruba people, that equates cultural expression with fetish practices.
This reaction follows an interview granted by Ọlawale Ajao, a Correspondent with Alaroye newspaper, to The Tabloid.net, a weekly publication.
In the interview, published on February 15, 2025, Ajao highlighted the challenges he faces for wearing traditional Yoruba attire daily, recounting how some people, out of ignorance and disdain for Yoruba traditions, often refer to him as a Babaláwo (herbalist) or an undertaker, simply because of his cultural dressing.
KOOOF Reacts, Calls for Cultural Reorientation
Reacting to the viral interview circulating on social media, Chief Olu Mayungbẹ, the Chairman of KOOOF, issued a press statement on Monday condemning the negative perception of Yoruba traditional attire.
“KOOOF is committed to preserving and promoting Yoruba culture and traditions. It is unfortunate that some people still view wearing traditional attire as something negative. This mindset stems from ignorance and a lack of proper cultural education,” he said.
The foundation emphasized the need for urgent cultural awareness and education within Yoruba communities to combat this deep-rooted misconception.
Continuing, the group maintained that “preserving cultural traditions and heritage is crucial for maintaining identity and self-respect. It is complete ignorance and a tragic loss when indigenous Yoruba people ridicule those who proudly wear their own native attire.
“Attacking one’s tradition is a sign of poor education. Yoruba people must launch widespread enlightenment campaigns to correct these harmful stereotypes and restore pride in our cultural heritage.”
YYSA Also Condemns the Misconception
In a similar development, the Yoruba Youth Socio-cultural Association (YYSA) also on Monday expressed its disapproval of the trend where Yoruba people sideline their own culture in favor of religion and Western education.
The President of YYSA, Mr. Habeeb Ọlálékan Hamed, urged Yoruba people to embrace their heritage, warning that failure to do so could lead to a permanent cultural decline.
“It is high time we woke up from our slumber and actively promoted our culture. If we want to stand among developed nations, we must take pride in our identity and traditions,” he stated.
YYSA commended the Oyo State Government, under Governor Seyi Makinde, for mandating civil servants to wear traditional attire twice a week (Thursdays and Fridays). The group urged other states to adopt similar policies to encourage cultural awareness and appreciation.
Both groups in separate statements reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that Yoruba traditions remain vibrant and respected, calling on all Yoruba people to proudly embrace their cultural identity.