Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has condemned those who dismiss the traditional Yoruba deity, Ifa Orunmila, calling them “bloody fools.”

Speaking on Sunday at the Green Legacy Hotel and Resort in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during the 50th birthday celebration of renowned female talking drummer Olamuyiwa Aralola, popularly known as Ara, Obasanjo emphasized the need to preserve African cultural heritage.

The former president stressed that Yoruba culture, including its language, food, and traditions, is authentic and must not be relegated in favor of Western influences.

He remarked, “Culture is the totality of who we are. Yoruba is Yoruba; it is authentic, and we must celebrate what belongs to us.”

Obasanjo, a Christian, highlighted the historical significance of Ifa Orunmila, stating, “Before Christianity or Islam, Orunmila was with us. It means Olorun lo mo eni to ma la—‘It is Heaven that knows who will be saved.’”

He celebrated Ara as a cultural ambassador who has broken gender taboos by excelling in the traditionally male-dominated craft of playing the talking drum. Obasanjo encouraged youths to embrace their culture and strive for excellence, saying, “Whatever good your hands find to do, do it well, and I will celebrate you.”