In Brazil, a nation where intolerance—whether stemming from religious, ethnic, racial, or gender differences—is swiftly confronted and dealt with through the judicial system.
There is no doubt that what Nigeria lacks, Brazil would do irrespective of who it is; the nation would curb any form of religious denigration or intolerance. It would have curbed Oluwo from his constant attacks on Òrìṣà with processes and arrests to safeguard its spiritual heritage. The Oluwo of Iwo would face profound legal consequences for his actions. Oba Abdulrasheed stands at risk of arrest should he venture into Brazil and publicly denounce Òrìṣà worshippers, mirroring his controversial stance in Nigeria.
Brazil remains steadfast in its dedication to upholding religious tolerance, particularly towards faiths integral to its cultural identity such as Ifá, Òrìṣà, Candomblé, and Umbanda. Stringent legal frameworks are in place to combat acts of religious intolerance, imposing significant jail terms on offenders. This unwavering commitment ensures that Brazil continues to be a haven where all religious beliefs are honored and protected under the law, thereby preserving national harmony and cultural diversity.
The Oluwo’s provocative rhetoric could precipitate numerous legal proceedings should he publicly criticize any religious sects while in Brazil. The country, scarred by the devastating effects of religious discrimination which has tragically claimed numerous lives, enforces a strict three-year jail sentence for those who incite, provoke, or engage in any form of racial, ethnic, gender, or religious discrimination.
Recent events underscore Brazil’s firm stance on religious tolerance. For instance, Daniele, a social media influencer, faced legal repercussions after publicly criticizing Òrìṣà worship in Rio Grande do Sul following a catastrophic flood. Her statements led to multiple legal proceedings and the closure of her social media accounts. Similarly, Ludmilla, a prominent Brazilian singer, was summoned to a judicial hearing earlier this year for making contentious comparisons between Èşù and Jesus Christ. She subsequently issued a public apology and retracted her remarks.
In the political arena, Ìşéşé devotees are increasingly assuming influential roles within the Brazilian government, including positions in the House of Assembly and Senate. Recent advocacy efforts by Òrìṣà worshippers in the São Paulo municipal house resulted in the inclusion of Ifá verses alongside traditional Bible readings during sessions, prompting the removal of religious symbols to accommodate diverse beliefs.
Recognizing the diversity of faiths practiced within its borders, the Brazilian government has designated specific days for various religious sects to celebrate their beliefs, ranging from Islam and Christianity to Òrìṣà, Paganism, Buddhism, and others. President Lula da Silva recently formalized Òrìṣà Day as an official holiday, underscoring Brazil’s commitment to religious inclusivity.
In contrast to Nigeria’s inaction regarding Oba Abdulrasheed’s inflammatory remarks, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has taken decisive steps to increase penalties for acts of religious intolerance. Religions of African origin, such as Ifá, Òrìṣà, Candomblé, and Umbanda, are frequently targeted by those who disregard religious freedoms. Data from the Ministry of Human Rights reveals a notable increase in attacks against these faiths, highlighting the urgency of legal protections.
President Lula’s recent legislative measures, enacted in January, equate penalties for religious discrimination with those for racial offenses, aiming to safeguard religious freedoms and provide greater support to victims filing complaints. These stringent measures aim to ensure that victims of religious discrimination receive adequate legal protection, effectively aligning penalties with those imposed for racial discrimination.
Given this legal backdrop, it is unlikely that a monarch like the Oluwo of Iwo, who has publicly criticized the religious practices of his ancestors as being “devilish,” would risk visiting a country like Brazil. In a nation where diverse religious practices are integral to the societal fabric and all beliefs are equally safeguarded under the law, any such actions by the monarch would likely result in his arrest for violating Brazil’s rigorous laws on religious tolerance.
It is imperative that Governor Adeleke of Osun State, Nigeria, responds to the troubling statements made by the traditional ruler of Iwo Kingdom, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, regarding Òrìṣà practices. Taking a decisive stance on this matter would be crucial in preserving the rich culture and tradition of the Yorùbá people, similar to the approach taken in Brazil, where severe penalties await those who incite religious conflicts.
Brazil is a secular country where all religions are welcomed and respected. This inclusive approach allows various faiths, including Catholicism, African religions like Òrìşà, Pentecostalism, Buddhism, and Islam, to practice their beliefs freely and without facing intolerance or hatred. The nation’s constitution guarantees religious freedom, providing environment where diverse spiritual traditions can thrive harmoniously.
Brazil’s commitment to secularism and religious freedom is evident in its diverse religious landscape. The country is home to the largest Catholic population in the world, while African religions such as Òrìṣà, Candomblé and Umbanda have deep roots and significant followings. Pentecostal and evangelical movements have also grown rapidly in recent years. Additionally, Buddhism, Islam, and other faiths have established striving communities. This pluralism is a plus to Brazil’s dedication to upholding the right to religious expression for all its citizens.
Religious tourism is a vital component of Brazil’s economy, contributing several billion dollars annually. The rich cultural heritage of Catholicism, Òrìşà, and other religious traditions attracts millions of tourists each year. Events like the annual Catholic pilgrimages to Aparecida and the celebrations of Afro-Brazilian deities in Bahia draw visitors from around the globe, enriching the nation’s cultural awareness and boosting local economies.
Also considering the significant economic benefits derived from religious tourism, Brazil takes a firm stance against any actions that could disrupt its religious harmony. The government has enacted stringent laws to combat religious intolerance and discrimination, ensuring that all faiths can coexist peacefully. Individuals or groups who attempt to incite religious hatred or disrupt the nation’s tourism projects face severe legal consequences.
Brazil’s secular framework and commitment to religious freedom make it a model of tolerance and diversity. By welcoming all faiths and protecting their rights, the country not only allows social harmony but also enhances its economic prosperity through religious tourism. As such, Brazil remains vigilant in preserving its cultural and religious inclusivity, ensuring that it continues to be a haven for spiritual diversity and a thriving destination for religious tourists.
