Yoruba tolerance rooted in Ifa philosophy, communal harmony

American professor who studied 40 years calls Yoruba world's most tolerant ethnic group, especially toward other religions and migrants. Their tolerance stems from Ifa cosmology that prioritizes communal harmony over sectarian divisions - common for Yoruba families to include Muslims, Christians, and traditional practitioners celebrating each other's holidays. Cultural concept of 'Omoluabi' emphasizes good character and communal responsibility, while 'children of same mother' philosophy (ọmọ iya) serves as moral foundation for peace. Yoruba never waged religious wars, choosing integration over expansion - evident in how Yoruba establish communities abroad without controversy. Lagos as commercial hub reinforces tolerance through business interactions where tribe/religion secondary to trust and value. How might this cultural approach to coexistence help address Nigeria's ethnic tensions today?

SOURCE: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/opinion/874991-what-makes-the-yorubas-tick-3-by-sunday-adelaja.html