As February draws to a close, many Nigerians are asking why the much-anticipated Oro Festival, a deeply rooted cultural and spiritual event, has yet to take place.
The festival, which holds significant importance in certain Yoruba communities, particularly in towns like Ilorin and other parts of Kwara State, has become a topic of discussion on social media as the traditional celebration remains conspicuously absent this year."February is almost over, and still no Oro Festival? Are you saying your tradition is nothing more than a political tool?" questioned one social media user, sparking a wave of online debate. Many are puzzled by the lack of clarity surrounding the festival’s schedule, which has led to speculations about possible political interference or delays.
The Oro Festival is traditionally a sacred event, reserved for the spiritual cleansing and the veneration of deities in Yoruba culture. However, in recent years, its timing and execution have been questioned, with some Nigerians alleging that the festival’s observance has been influenced by political considerations.
Drawing parallels to the religious activities of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), some Nigerians are now suggesting that the Oro Festival has become more of a political tool than a purely cultural or spiritual one. "So, the Oro Festival serves as the spiritual arm of the APC (All Progressives Congress), just as RCCG functions as their religious arm?" one Twitter user asked, fueling further speculation about the political motivations behind traditional events.
Critics argue that the festival’s delay could be a result of political calculations, with some pointing to the timing of elections and the possible desire to avoid any religious or cultural event that could sway public opinion. They suggest that political parties may be working behind the scenes to either delay or organize the festival for strategic purposes.
On the other hand, some traditional leaders have come out to assure the public that the festival will occur soon, distancing the event from political influence. They emphasize that the Oro Festival is an important spiritual observance that has been practiced for centuries, and any delays are merely logistical in nature.
As Nigerians continue to debate the issue, questions remain about the intersection of tradition, politics, and spirituality. The Oro Festival, with its cultural significance, is now at the center of a broader discussion about how deeply ingrained practices can be influenced by modern-day political forces, leaving many to wonder whether tradition can ever be truly independent of political power.
