Iba Gani Adams urges religious leaders to foster peace and cultural tolerance, promoting Yoruba heritage through the global Olokun Festival

Iba Gani Adams has called on religious leaders to encourage peace and allow their members to participate in cultural practices without prejudice, stressing that culture and religion, though interconnected in human life, are distinct and should never be confused.

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The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland and Chief Promoter of the Olokun Festival Foundation (OFF) made the appeal while speaking about the enduring significance of the annual Olokun Festival.

He emphasised that culture defines identity and that diminishing traditional heritage weakens a people’s moral and spiritual foundation.

Adams, revered as a custodian of Yoruba culture, noted that many of today’s global crises—including insecurity, poverty, and religious intolerance—stem from ignorance and the erosion of traditional values.

He warned that religious conflicts in particular often leave lasting scars on communities.

Highlighting the powerful essence of the Olokun Festival, now in its 23rd year, Adams described it as a celebration that brings abundance, wealth, fulfilment, and good health to its faithful participants.

“The blessings of the festival are encompassing,” he said. “It symbolises prosperity and divine grace for those who honour their roots.”

He revealed that the foundation has acquired a permanent site, Kakanfo Falola Beach, which he described as spiritually inspired.

He assured that the location would soon evolve into a world-class tourism and cultural destination, reflecting the growing global influence of the festival.

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Through his advocacy, Iba Gani Adams continues to stand as a voice for cultural pride and interfaith understanding, championing the message that peace and progress thrive where heritage and faith coexist with mutual respect.