Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, recently stated that Ifa is a core component of Yoruba religious heritage and spiritual wisdom rather than just a divination tool. Speaking at the 2026 Ifa Festival in Ogun State, organized by the Olokun Festival Foundation and the Oodua People’s Congress, Adams underscored that these annual celebrations help the younger generation connect with their roots.
He challenged common misconceptions that label indigenous practices as negative, asserting that Ifa deserves respect similar to other global religious traditions like Buddhism or Hinduism. He urged religious leaders to promote coexistence rather than disparaging traditional beliefs, noting that culture and religion are distinct entities.
Chief Ifayemi Ifatunde, President of the International Council for Ifa Religion, added that Ifa remains infallible, suggesting that any failures in practice stem from human interpretation rather than the system itself. He emphasized that Ifa serves as a guide for destiny, moral conduct, and navigating life challenges, comparing spiritual guidance to medical treatment that requires proper adherence to succeed.
