Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon, an Ifa Priest based in Osogbo, Osun State, emphasized the efficacy of Yoruba traditional means in resolving paternity disputes, amid a surge in cases of paternity fraud.
In a discussion with journalists at his residence in Osogbo, Elebuibon addressed concerns about the reliability of Yoruba traditional methods compared to modern DNA testing, particularly for individuals unable to afford DNA tests.
Elebuibon attributed the rise in paternity fraud to the abandonment of Yoruba cultural practices and the embrace of foreign religions, highlighting the rich heritage of traditional paternity determination within the Yoruba culture.
He explained, “Yoruba has traditional DNA, and they are very potent. They vary from one family or compound to another. We are having a high rate of cases of paternity fraud now because people of our race have decided to abandon what belongs to them and embrace two foreign religions.”
Drawing from his cultural expertise, Elebuibon detailed traditional Yoruba methods for determining paternity, citing examples such as oaths taken before ancestral shrines and other rituals practiced within communities.
He emphasized the accessibility and reliability of these traditional methods, urging those interested in paternity investigations to consider the alternatives available within Yoruba culture.
In a broader context, Elebuibon’s remarks underscored the importance of preserving indigenous cultural practices amidst societal changes and modernization.
The discussion on traditional paternity determination comes against the backdrop of recent high-profile paternity disputes in Nigeria, including the legal battle between Nigerian striker Olarenwaju Kayode and his estranged wife, as well as the family of the late singer Mohbad, whose father is seeking a DNA test for his grandson.
As debates continue on the best approach to resolving paternity disputes, Elebuibon’s insights shed light on the enduring relevance of traditional cultural practices in contemporary society.