In Bamgbade, a small village located in the Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, the Ajayi family of six has been forced to go into hiding after refusing to join the Egungun worshiping cult, a traditional Yoruba religious practice.
Olusola Francis Ajayi and his wife, Olawumi Francisca Ajayi, along with their children; Oyinkansola Cherish, Ayokunle Desire, Iretomide Treasure, and Lucy Ajayi, have reportedly been subjected to intense pressure and threats from community members and local leaders since their refusal to partake in the revered religious ceremony.
Egungun worship, deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the community, involves the veneration of ancestral spirits through elaborate rituals and ceremonies. For generations, it has been a central aspect of community life, with participation viewed as both a sacred duty and a mark of respect for one’s lineage.
However, the Ajayi family’s decision to abstain from the practice has sparked outrage and condemnation among their neighbours, who view their refusal as a direct affront to tradition and an act of disrespect towards their ancestors.
Speaking to newsmen, Olusola Francis Ajayi lamented that his family were harassed and threatened by members of the cult for their refusal to participate in the worship rituals, which involve donning elaborate costumes and masks and performing various ceremonial activities.
He lamented that his family has now gone into hiding in an undisclosed location to protect themselves from further harassment and potential harm.
He stated that the family’s decision to leave their home has not only disrupted their daily lives but also caused significant distress and fear.
Ajayi visibly distraught by the situation, expressed his concern for the safety and well-being of his family, emphasising the difficulty of their predicament.
“We have always been a peaceful and respectful family, but now we are being persecuted for simply wanting to practice our faith. We are afraid for our lives and the safety of our children.
“Egungun worship is a deeply rooted tradition in our community, and we respect that,” Ajayi explained. “However, as a family, we made a conscious decision not to participate due to our personal beliefs and convictions.”
He continued, “We did not intend to disrespect our ancestors or the traditions of our community. We simply wished to exercise our right to follow our path.”
“Fearing for the safety and well-being of my family, we had no choice but to seek refuge in hiding,” Ajayi revealed. “It has been a challenging time for us, not knowing when it will be safe to return home.”
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