Egbesu Religion: A Sacred Covenant With The Ijaw Elohim—Revival, Dialogue, And Cultural Significance__

By Freeborn Abraye

In a moment of profound sanctity and timeless significance, the ancestors of the Ijaw people forged an enduring covenant with Egbesu, the majestic Elohim of the Ijaw people on planet Earth. This hallowed indigenous religion of the Ijaw, steeped in the mists of tradition and mysticism, found an epoch of unparalleled prominence in the Tompolo era.

Through indefatigable efforts, Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo—a former militant general turned venerable chief priest of Egbesu and kindred deities—laboured zealously not only to revive the splendour of this ancient faith but also to unfurl its essence onto the national and global stage. Amidst this renaissance, many across tribal boundaries and geographic landscapes who align themselves with Tompolo and partake in the contemplation, discourse, and practices pertaining to the Egbesu religion have been branded by others as pagans and devotees of idols, couched in eloquent yet often contentious terminology.

The narrative of Egbesu’s sacred bond with the Ijaw ancestors is one of mystical grandeur, where the Elohim Egbesu reigns as a potent symbol of justice and spiritual vigour in the Niger Delta’s cultural tapestry. Chief Ekpemupolo’s endeavours have woven a compelling narrative of revival and outreach, embedding the Egbesu religion in broader dialogues of culture and spirituality. Yet, this visibility has drawn diverse perceptions, with some viewing adherents through the lens of traditional paganism or idolatry.

Developing and practising the Egbesu religion isn’t satanic, nor is it sin or idolatry. Egbesu is worshipped by Ijaw faithful as a national divinity, akin to how Indians, Chinese, and Japanese people worship their own divinities. The worship of Egbesu is deeply rooted in Ijaw spirituality, symbolising hope, freedom, and development. Criticism of Egbesu worship may stem from cultural and religious differences, lack of understanding, or historical contexts of traditional religions facing suppression or criticism.

Just as the luminous tapestries of Hinduism* weave through the cultural fabric of India, the ancient wisdoms of Buddhism and Taoism cascade like mystical rivers through China’s spiritual landscape, and the ethereal beauty of Shintoism whispers secrets of nature to the soul of Japan. The Egbesu religion plays a vital role in Ijaw spirituality and cultural identity. Egbesu worship involves elements like rituals and symbols, emphasising Egbesu’s sacred nature in Ijaw tradition. They have their indigenous religion, which they built and protected over time.

These are globally accepted religions that defer from Christian⁶ religion in terms of worship. They have different methodologies. Interestingly, Indian, Chinese, and Japanese Christians have not condemned those religions the way the Ijaws are doing to their own cultural religion. In a harmonious ballet of beliefs, these Eastern nations embrace their traditional faiths with a grace that bespeaks deep cultural reverence. Amidst the pluralistic melodies of their societies, Christians in these lands coexist with indigenous traditions in a symphony of spiritual diversity.

Cultural diversity and religious freedom are fundamental aspects of human societies, contributing to the richness and complexity of global interactions. Respect for diversity, protection of rights, and cultural exchange promote peaceful coexistence and dialogue. Challenges include balancing rights and sensitivities, promoting understanding, and addressing discrimination. Examples of cultural and religious diversity include multicultural societies, interfaith dialogue, and cultural festivals showcasing diversity and promoting inclusivity.

Promoting interfaith dialogue involves fostering understanding, respect, and cooperation among people of different religious backgrounds. This can be achieved by Encouraging Open Conversations: creating spaces for people from different faiths to share their beliefs, practices, and values; Focusing on Commonalities: highlighting shared values like compassion, peace, and community service to build bridges; Educating About Different Faiths learning about other religions fosters empathy and reduces misconceptions; Organising Interfaith Events: activities like interfaith prayers, cultural festivals, or community service projects promote unity; and Engaging in Respectful Listening listening to others’ perspectives without judgement to build trust.

Benefits of interfaith dialogue include promoting peace and understanding, encouraging cooperation, and enhancing cultural awareness. Challenges involve respecting differences, avoiding proselytising, and building trust gradually.

Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) is the spiritual overlord, playing a pivotal role in revising and revitalising the Egbesu religion. Through his indefatigable efforts, Tompolo has brought significant attention to the Egbesu religion, embedding it in broader cultural and spiritual dialogues. His work has been instrumental in the revival of the Egbesu faith among the Ijaw people.