Traditionalists and filmmakers in Nigeria have agreed to collaborate to stop the misrepresentation and denigration of the Ìṣẹ̀ṣe traditional belief system.
This agreement was reached during a one-day interactive session with stakeholders in the movie industry, organized by the Isese Welfare Association (IWA) at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, in Oyo State.
A statement by IWA’s National Publicity Secretary, Ifatayo Awolade, highlighted the importance of accurate cultural and religious portrayal in the media, urging filmmakers to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s indigenous heritage in their productions.
Araba Awo of Osogbo, Ifayemi Elebuibon, emphasized that the collaboration aims to counter the misrepresentation of the Ìṣẹ̀ṣe belief system. He noted that cinema is a powerful tool that can preserve and promote traditional culture, spirituality, and heritage for future generations.
Aderemi Ifaolepin, the founder and National Coordinator of IWA, pointed out that misrepresentations in films can distort the perception of Ìṣẹ̀ṣe, which is not just a cultural practice but a religion for the Yoruba people, now practiced globally.
Rasaq Oyadira, the National President of the Association of Theatre Arts Practitioners, suggested further sessions among filmmakers to ensure accurate representation and to educate scriptwriters, who play a critical role in shaping public perception.
He highlighted the need for thorough research to preserve the Yoruba religion’s integrity in films, citing India’s preservation of its language and religion as an example of cultural resilience.
Paul Ailewon, National Liaison Officer of the National Films and Sensors Board, South-West Zone, echoed the call for self-regulation within the industry to ensure responsible and culturally accurate content.
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