A video has gone viral on social media, capturing the moment a newborn baby was dedicated to the Yoruba water gods. The footage has drawn significant attention and controversy online, sparking discussions about cultural practices and safety concerns surrounding the ritual.
The video, which was shared on the platform X (formerly Twitter), features several traditional worshippers chanting in unison, paying homage to the Yoruba water deities. The setting appears to be a river, and the atmosphere is imbued with the sounds and sights of a traditional ceremony, as participants engage in their time-honored customs.
In the footage, a traditionalist can be seen firmly holding the newborn baby while partially submerging its legs in the river multiple times. The ritual involves alternating the sides of the baby's legs being submerged, which is a customary practice during the dedication process. The traditionalist’s actions are performed with care, as they follow the established rituals believed to honor the deities.
As the video circulated online, it attracted a wave of concerned viewers who took to the comments section to voice their reactions. Many expressed worries about the implications of performing such a ritual in what appears to be contaminated water, raising alarms about potential health risks for the newborn.
See some reactions below:
@justabdulmuqsit: “This one na sacrifice, but the other na Baptism. I’m observing.” This comment highlights the ongoing debate about the differences between traditional practices and more widely accepted rituals like baptism.
@Gracebal0: “Is that water not too dirty? The child can develop skin disease or infection!!!” This reaction points to health concerns regarding the water quality used in the ritual.
@Queenie_Bim: “I’m just concerned why they can’t do this in a clean river; that river is a landfill site. A child’s body that doesn’t even have great microbial flora yet.” This comment underscores the potential risks associated with exposing a newborn to unsanitary conditions.
@Ugochukwu_96: “Even if this rubbish they’re doing is traditional, why must it be done in such contaminated water? Why near a waste like that? 🤢 We just enjoy doing stup!d things in the name of tradition.” This reaction reflects a strong criticism of the choice of location for the ritual.
@MayGistv: “Poor child who hasn’t even completed the immunization but exposed to infection and diseases at early age. Imagine the very dirty water and environment.” This comment expresses concern over the health implications for the infant, emphasizing the importance of proper healthcare.
@GODS_OWN01: “An innocent child that doesn’t know her left from right, I hope she finds God; God loves her so much.” This sentiment illustrates the hope for protection and divine care for the newborn amidst the controversy.
@OluwafunkeLizzy: “May God deliver this child from the power of darkness. This is outright dedication to the marine spirit. Parents, please be wise; allow the true God into your lives. Jesus loves you all.” This comment reflects a religious perspective on the ritual, urging a focus on spirituality and divine protection.
@ziecity: “The tradition is not the problem, but why does it have to be in a dirty environment and water?” This reaction reiterates the concern about the environmental conditions surrounding the ritual rather than the tradition itself.
WATCH VIDEO: [/p>
New born child gets dedicated to the Yoruba god of water in a trending video pic.twitter.com/unZnvIr5ue
— Sabi Radio #BBNaija (@sabiradioonline) September 25, 2024[/p>