Soyinka Criticises Suppression of Indigenous Religions at “Amazing Grace: Yorubaworlds” U.S. Screening

Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka has condemned ongoing efforts to suppress indigenous African religions, citing recent incidents where traditional worship practices were restricted in Nigeria.

Speaking at a private screening of “Amazing Grace: Yorubaworlds” in the United States, he addressed the contradictions in global attitudes toward African traditions.

During the discussion, Soyinka highlighted the paradox of institutions advocating for the preservation of indigenous languages while dismissing the cultural philosophies they contain. He described such attitudes as contradictory, noting that traditional belief systems are often labeled “primitive” despite their deep-rooted ethical and communal values.

“At this stage of human development, somebody will get up and say, ‘No, you cannot dance, chant, or worship on your own ancestral soil,’” Soyinka said, referencing a recent case where a Nigerian emir reportedly forbade a religious procession. He argued that these restrictions reflect a lingering colonial mindset and continue to marginalize indigenous belief systems.

The event, held on February 24 at Harvard’s Brattle Theatre, marked the first private U.S. screening of “Amazing Grace: Yorubaworlds”, a documentary exploring the global impact of Yoruba culture.

Directed by Raynald Leconte and co-produced by veteran Nigerian filmmaker Tunde Kelani, the film traces Yoruba traditions across Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean, and the United States, examining their resilience despite historical disruptions.

Other panelists at the event, including Harvard scholar Henry Louis Gates Jr., discussed the significance of Yoruba traditions beyond religion, particularly their role in shaping cultural and artistic expressions across the diaspora. Leconte emphasized the film’s focus on Yoruba heritage as a unifying force rather than a divisive element.

“Amazing Grace: Yorubaworlds” continues its global rollout following its U.S. debut.