Fetish Priest defends traditional religion

Medoma (Ash), Jan 9, GNA- Nana Kwabena Abebrese, Chief Priest of the 'Black and White' Shrine at Medoma near Kumasi, has defended traditional religion and dismissed the contention that it was devilish. He said, traditional religion stands for love, unity and true faith, adding, "we rely on God and aim at stopping all evils in the society".

Speaking in an interview with the GNA at Medoma at the last 'Akwasidae' at Medoma, Nana Abebrese popularly called Nana Abass, said to remove the superstition and other evil deeds associated with traditional religion, he has started an educational programme where he explained the concept of the religion to worshippers after consultations on sacred days.

He said it was regrettable that Ghanaians looked down upon their own religion as devilish and said there was the need for people to respect and understand other religions to bring about peace and development.

Nana Abebrese said since its inception in 1990, the shrine has trained 28 African-Americans, made up of 20 women and eight men who were performing traditional consultations in traditional religion in the United States.

The traditional priest advised adherent of the religion, especially the priests to lead honest lives and help bring salvation to the people.

He also urged all traditional priests in Ashanti to identify themselves with the Anokye 'Kroye Kuo', an association of priests working towards the progress and development of the religion. Nana Abebrese called on his colleague priests to pray for peaceful elections this year.