Dignitaries Gather As Obalufon Royal Dynasty Launches Book On Yoruba Heritage In Ile-Ife

Ile-Ife, the cradle of Yoruba civilisation, played host to esteemed traditional rulers, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts on Thursday as the Obalufon Royal Dynasty formally launched a book titled The Obalufon Phenomenon in Ile-Ife and Yoruba History.

The grand event, held at the Oba Sijuwade Memorial Hall, Enuwa, Ile-Ife, was a remarkable gathering of royal fathers and intellectuals, all united in their quest to preserve and document Yoruba heritage.

The book, a scholarly work compiled by renowned academics, delves into the historical significance of Obalufon, a revered figure in Yoruba history.

It sheds light on his contributions to Ife civilisation, including glassmaking, terracotta artistry, and beadwork, which remain cultural hallmarks to this day.

Chairman of the occasion, the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesa, Oba Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II, lamented the growing ignorance among some Yoruba descendants regarding their rich ancestry.

He stressed the need for greater efforts in historical documentation, warning that a people without history risk cultural extinction.

In his welcome address, Prof. Muib Opeloye, Asiwaju of the Obalufon Royal Dynasty, underscored the importance of the book, stating that Ife’s history is often neglected in mainstream literature.

“If we do not write our own history, it will be forgotten,” he asserted, emphasising that the documentation of Obalufon’s legacy was long overdue.

Prof. Adebusola Adepoju, Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, echoed similar sentiments, describing Obalufon as a legendary figure whose impact on Ife history and Yoruba civilisation cannot be overstated.

“His contributions remain timeless, and this book ensures that future generations will appreciate his legacy,” she said.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso, Provost of the Postgraduate College at Osun State University and Pro-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, highlighted the book’s academic value.

He praised the Ooni of Ife for his unwavering commitment to preserving Yoruba history and urged families in Ile-Ife to document their lineages to prevent historical distortions.

“The book, co-authored by Professors Adisa Ogunfolakan, Muib Opeloye, Abimbola Adesoji, and Saka Opeloye, is a treasure trove of knowledge,” Oyeweso stated.

“It covers key aspects of Ife’s history, including the renowned glassmaking industry once controlled by the Ajilesoro family.”

Book reviewers, Prof. Gbenga Fasiku, Director of the Institute of Cultural Studies at Obafemi Awolowo University, and Prof. Adebusola Adepoju, provided in-depth analyses of the work, commending its scholarly depth and cultural relevance.

The event was further enriched with captivating cultural performances, reinforcing the deep-rooted traditions of the Yoruba people.