Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Assembly and Filmmakers Commit to Ending Negative Depictions

Stakeholders in the preservation of Yoruba culture tradition and religion have emphasized the importance of accurate cultural and religious representation in the media and encouraged filmmakers to protect the integrity of indigenous heritage in the their works.

This was made known at a one-day interactive session with critical stakeholders in the movie industry, organised by the Isese Welfare Association, popularly called ‘Isese Assembly’ which held at Onasode Hall, International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan on Thursday.

Whole speaking at the event, the Araba Awo of Osogbo, High Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon said the collaboration was aimed at countering misrepresentation and denigration of the traditional belief system.

According to him, “this symposium is part of a strategic effort to preserve and promote traditional culture, spirituality, Heritage, and religion through cinema and theatrical arts.

“We brought together key players from the film industry such as, actors, directors, scriptwriters, and content creators in other to address the contemporary challenges facing the traditional belief system, known as Isese.”

Elebuibon stressed that the initiative reflected a broader effort to ensure traditional culture and religion are preserved amidst modern media influence.

He added that, the synergy between Isese Assembly and the film industry is a vital step in ensuring that Isese religious practices are preserved for future generations, using the powerful medium of film to educate and inspire both local and international audiences.

In his opening remarks, the founder and National Coordinator of Isese Welfare Association, Barrister Aderemi Ifaolepin Aderemi stated that the goal of the interactive session was to establish a sustainable platform between filmmakers and Isese Assembly to preserve and promote cultural traditions and the indigenous region.

He said the initiative reflected a broader concern about the global portrayal of indigenous Yorùbá religion and the erosion of traditional values through misrepresentation in mainstream media.

Ifaolepin stressed that the misconceptions about Isese have been so much and the role filmmakers are playing in this has been affecting the Isese adherents, as many people wrongly believe whatever they see in the movies as the truth, which is relegating what he called the most cherished African indigenous religion.

“IWA is particularly concerned with the portrayal of cultural traditions and Ìṣẹ̀ṣe religion in films and media, as misrepresentations can lead to the distortion of cultural and religious practices.

“They are not seeing it from the aspect of religion, they see is as culture, Isese is a religion of Yoruba people and it is now been practiced all over the world.

“We believe that by working closely with filmmakers, they can ensure that Yoruba culture is not only protected but also revitalized, with its rich heritage, spirituality, and religion showcased authentically and with respect,” he added.

Oluwo Ifaolepin maintained that the partnership could lead to innovative storytelling, that would highlight the depth and beauty of Yoruba religion and traditions, while also countering stereotypes and misinformation.

He said this will ensure that Yoruba customs, including divination practices, spirituality, and religious beliefs are accurately represented on screen.