Esu not Satan in Bible, Quran, traditionalists insist

The New Afrika Shrine in Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos, was a melting pot of culture, history, and electrifying performances on Tuesday as the “Esu Is Not Satan” Festival marked its 10th anniversary.

Drawing participants from 10 Nigerian states and 54 countries, the festival aimed to educate the public on the Yoruba deity Esu and debunk long-standing misconceptions equating Esu with Satan.

The day kicked off with an opening prayer, followed by a compelling speech from one of the organisers, Owomide Popoola, who set the tone for the event’s purpose.

“This event is to educate people about who Esu truly is. Many have mistaken Esu for Satan, but Esu is not Satan,” he declared, igniting applause from the crowd.

In his welcome address, festival founder, Oluwo Solagbade Popoola, reflected on a decade of spreading awareness.

“Since 2015, we’ve been working to reclaim the narrative surrounding Esu. Today, educated individuals, professors, doctors, and scholars are embracing traditional practices and acknowledging Esu as an integral part of Yoruba cosmology. Esu is not Satan. He is a director of life, guiding people to fulfill their purpose,” Solagbade emphasised.

Throughout the event, several speakers delved into the significance of Esu in Yoruba tradition.

Babalawo Esulekan Ifabiyi, a priest, described Esu as a divine mediator and a deity of justice.

“Esu is not the Satan described in the Bible or Quran. It is a gross misinterpretation.

“Esu ensures fairness, balances morality, and enforces justice in society,” he explained.

A traditional ruler, Oba Ela, highlighted Esu’s role as a protector against evil.

“Esu deals with wrongdoing. He ensures that those who commit evil are brought to justice. Esu is not a demon but a god of accountability,” Oba Ela stated.

The festival blended education with entertainment, featuring captivating cultural displays such as the Oriki Esu, performed by a children’s group, and traditional dances that brought the audience to their feet.

Musical performances by renowned Yoruba artists, including Ewebiyi and Beriola Ayanshina, filled the air with vibrant melodies celebrating the richness of Yoruba heritage.

Adding to the festival’s star power, prominent figures like Yeni Kuti, Seun Kuti, Ifadapo Elebuibon and others graced the event.