The actor reacted following the circulation of a video of the cleric speaking about African traditional religious practices, expressing disagreement with the way such practices were characterised.

In his response, Edochie defended African traditions, arguing that cultural practices should not automatically be dismissed as fetish. His position has reopened conversations about the relationship between Christianity, traditional beliefs and African identity.

The disagreement has attracted attention on social media, where people hold differing views on whether certain traditional practices conflict with Christian teachings or deserve recognition as part of Africa’s cultural heritage.

Abiodun, in his message to mark the celebration, said Ogun State was blessed with a proud history, diverse cultural expressions and a people who had continued to demonstrate that differences in faith and belief could coexist in an atmosphere of mutual respect, understanding and peace.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the rights of every citizen and creating an environment where people of different faiths and traditions can live together peacefully.

He urged traditional religion practitioners and all residents of the state to promote tolerance, unity and peaceful coexistence, stressing the importance of values that strengthen the bonds among the people.

According to him, the 2026 Isese Day celebration should serve as an opportunity to further strengthen the unity of residents and contribute to the continued peace, progress and prosperity of Ogun State.

Abiodun wished traditional religion practitioners across the state a peaceful and joyous celebration, while extending his greetings to all residents marking the occasion.

Adeola, who represents Ogun West Senatorial District in the National Assembly, urged the people of Ogun State to use the celebration to preserve the cultural heritage, traditions and values passed down by their forebears.

In his message, the APC governorship candidate described culture as an important part of the identity of the people, stressing that Isese Day goes beyond the celebration of tradition.

According to him, the occasion provides an opportunity to appreciate the religious diversity of society while promoting peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and tolerance among people of different faiths.

Adeola urged traditional religion practitioners and other residents to continue promoting values that unite the people and strengthen the bonds that have sustained communities across generations.

He also wished traditional religion practitioners in Ogun State a peaceful and memorable celebration, while extending his greetings to all residents marking Isese Day.

The auditions, scheduled for July 28 to 30 at Oluremi Tinubu Hall in Surulere, Lagos, are expected to attract young women between the ages of 18 and 26 from across the local government area.

Organisers said this year’s edition, themed around Culture, Excellence and Empowerment, seeks to celebrate the beauty, intelligence and leadership potential of young women while encouraging them to become ambassadors of the rich cultural heritage of Surulere and Lagos State.

According to the organisers, the pageant is designed to go beyond physical beauty by providing participants with opportunities for personal development, mentorship, community service and leadership training.

They noted that contestants would be assessed on confidence, communication skills, cultural awareness and their ability to positively impact their communities.

The organisers added that the winner of the competition would serve as an advocate for youth and community development, using the platform to champion initiatives that promote education, cultural identity and social responsibility.

They urged eligible young women with passion for leadership and community service to take advantage of the opportunity and participate in the auditions.

The Miss Surulere Heritage Beauty Pageant is an annual initiative aimed at discovering and grooming young women who embody confidence, intelligence and cultural pride while contributing to community development through advocacy and public engagement.