In a candid revelation, accomplished Nollywood actor, Peter Fatomilola, has delivered a stern warning to those who invest time and resources in making sacrifices to òrìṣà (gods), asserting that such practices are an exercise in futility.
Fatomilola’s remarks came forth during an exclusive interview with fellow Nollywood actor, Kunle Afod.
The seasoned actor emphasized the inefficacy of offering sacrifices to òrìṣà, arguing that these entities, being man-made, lack the ability to appreciate or consume the offerings.
In a bold example, he recounted the theft of a god (èṣù) worshipped by an entire town in Ilé Ifẹ̀, noting that the god itself was rendered defenseless and unable to protect itself.
“Why offer what they cannot partake in – they cannot speak, they cannot consume. Take, for instance, a god (èṣù) revered by an entire town in Ilé Ifẹ̀; it was pilfered, and the culprits eluded identification. The deity, in essence, stood defenseless, incapable of safeguarding or preserving itself,” he conveyed.
Watch the full video of the interview here
As the head of traditionalists in his hometown in Ekiti, Fatomilola revealed his minimalistic approach to traditional practices. Despite being a core traditionalist, he challenged the conventional expectation of having shrines adorned with gods at his doorstep. According to him, these gods are human creations and not genuine entities.
“Giving the gods sacrifices constitutes an environmental hazard because they will not consume what you offer,” Fatomilola remarked, shedding light on the potential negative consequences of such rituals.
Addressing his belief in ifá (Oracle), Fatomilola clarified that ifá is not a god but a form of knowledge akin to Islam and Christianity.
“It embodies a wisdom akin to Islam and Christianity. In times of adversity, we turn to ifá for insights into the root causes and potential remedies.
“ifá consistently guides us along the correct course, illuminating the steps we should take. Subsequently, our offerings and sacrifices are directed towards the spirits, distinct from the òrìṣà,” he explained.
In times of calamity, traditionalists consult ifá to discern the causes and solutions. Notably, sacrifices are directed towards spirits, distinct from the òrìṣà.
Born on January 16, 1946, in Ifisin-Ekiti, Ido-Osi Local Government area of Ekiti State, Nigeria, Peter Fatomilola hails from a lineage deeply connected to traditional practices. His father, Chief Abraham Ojo Fatomilola, served as the Oluwo (Lord of the Oracle), influencing Fatomilola’s portrayal of herbalist roles in Nigerian films.
In challenging established norms, Fatomilola encourages a reconsideration of traditional practices, prompting individuals to redirect their time and resources towards more meaningful endeavours.