Traditional worshippers in Oyo state on Tuesday staged a peaceful demonstration to the state secretariat to protest against persistent marginalization by the state government against the principle of equity and fairness.
The protesters who were seen bearing placards with various inscriptions lamented the continuous non recognition by the government despite making several efforts through letters and engaging the state house of assembly to no avail.
Speaking on behalf of other worshippers, the General Secretary of the traditional worshippers, Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode said it was against every sense of ideal societal principle to recognize only Christians and Muslims in a multi religious society, demanding that the state government approve public holiday for traditional religious worshippers on August 20th known as Isese Day, appoint their members in the state cabinet, recognize them in state functions as well as accord them due regards.
While noting that their demands were in line with constitutional provision, they also hinted that traditional religious worshippers could partner with the state government to resuscitate tourism sites across the state, which would in turn impact the state economy if they were duly recognized.
Speaking on behalf of the state government, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on security, Sunday Odukoya assured the protesters that their messages would be delivered to the state Governor, Seyi Makinde.
He said: “They are part of the state nobody is looking down on them. I’m going to present their case to the governor and he would do something about it.”
He equally stressed that since the Governor is compassionate, we would address accordingly their demands.