04/01/2026
Statment
Mr. Legba Abdullahi,
At present, I do not have clear knowledge of the criteria adopted for recognizing an individual as a member of the Nagô Igala tradition in Brazil.
What I observe is that, within Brazilian territory, there have been recognitions granted to individuals who do not yet possess the necessary knowledge, understanding, or lived experience within the tradition. This has resulted in distortions and misrepresentations of values they do not fully understand, thereby contributing to the fragmentation of the tradition itself.
Many of these individuals have not undergone initiation in the Santo, regardless of the specific lineage, having access only to what are known as the lesser mysteries. This, in itself, clearly limits the responsibilities they can or should assume.
During the time of Inu Mestre Obashanan, there were interviews and other rigorous criteria for recognition by the community, which ensured greater coherence, responsibility, and preservation of traditional foundations.
I respect the vision, the manner of leadership, and the criteria currently being applied. However, being immersed in this context and aware of the existing challenges, I do not believe that, in the long term, this model will yield results that are beneficial to the preservation of the tradition.
I consider it extremely detrimental to a tradition such as Nagô Igala to allow individuals without the proper knowledge and understanding to assume responsibilities involving the care of the Orixá itself—especially when they do not demonstrate the necessary humility to seek learning from those who truly possess such knowledge.
For these reasons, I hereby formally request my withdrawal from the Nagô Igala tradition in Brazil.
Sincerely,
Mestre Arakamby