We, the present generation of Yoruba, Ootu Ife speak out in defense of our heritage and identity. Our culture, spirituality, and traditions, embodied in the Yoruba Isese and our Ancestors, have long been subjected to defamation, misrepresentation, and blatant demonization. These deliberate attacks have often been perpetrated with flimsy or non-existent evidence, causing untold harm to our people and contributing to the degradation of our cherished ways of life. For decades, two foreign religions in Nigeria have played a big part in these incidents, clouding our practices in unjust prejudice. 

The onisese, practitioners of our indigenous spirituality, have borne this burden with immense resilience, but the time has come to demand change. The denigration and destruction of our culture and practices inflict lasting damage on our community and threaten our immutable right to preserve and practice our cultural heritage. This is a threat we can no longer afford to ignore.

In order to safeguard our inherent right to maintain our cultural and spiritual identity, we call for legislation that penalizes any form of defamation, fabrication of lies, and baseless accusations against Yoruba Isese and our Ancestors. This law will not only serve as a deterrent against such harmful practices, but it will also signal a strong commitment to protecting the cultural diversity and richness in Nigeria.

Now, we stand tall—we, the Yoruba, Ootu Ife have decided that the self-preservation of our culture, spirituality, and traditions is paramount for the sake of our future generations. We cannot imagine a world where our children do not have the right to honor their heritage, learn the teachings of their forebears, or practice their spiritual beliefs without fear of retribution or defamation. Consequently, we demand immediate action to establish legal protections for our cultural and spiritual heritage.

Stand with us in creating a future where every member of our society can freely honor their heritage. Sign this petition today and stand against the defamation of Yoruba Isese and our Ancestors.