A renowned historian and Professor of African Studies, Toyin Falola, has called on the National Assembly to amend Nigeria’s official oath of office by incorporating the invocation of the Yoruba deities Sango and Ogun.
Punch reported that Falola made the proposal while delivering the keynote lecture titled “Yorùbá Mythologies and Their Relevance Today” during the inauguration of the Alaafin Institute of Yoruba Studies at Emmanuel Alayande University of Education in Oyo.
According to the professor, Nig eria’s existing legal and constitutional frameworks have not been sufficient to deter public officials from engaging in corrupt practices. He argued that invoking indigenous moral traditions alongside legal provisions could aid accountability. Then also instill fear and a greater sense of responsibility among office holders.
He questioned why the National Assembly could not consider incorporating the moral authority associated with Sango, regarded in Yoruba tradition as the deity of justice and retribution, and Ogun, the deity of iron, truth, and justice, into the oath sworn by public officials.
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However, Falola further added that the fear of spiritual and moral consequences attached to violating such an oath could serve as a stronger deterrent against corruption than existing legal sanctions alone.
The professor maintained that embracing elements of Nigeria’s indigenous cultural heritage should not be viewed as conflicting with modern governance. But rather as a means of reinforcing ethical leadership and promoting integrity in public service.
His remarks have since sparked debate among Nigerians, with supporters describing the proposal as an innovative way to promote accountability through traditional values, while critics argue that incorporating traditional religious elements into a constitutional oath could raise concerns over religious freedom and the country’s secular status.
Notably, the proposal has yet to receive any official response from the National Assembly.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
