The Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, has launched a new Yoruba literature book titled Ikumogunniyi, written and published by Alagba Lanrewaju Oderajo with a sum of 1.5 million naira, as part of his efforts to promote Yoruba culture and heritage.
Hon. Olufade said he met the author to discuss about the book a month ago and was impressed by the book’s depth in promoting Yoruba traditions. That meeting inspired him to support the printing of additional copies and to host the launch programme.He thanked everyone for coming, and for their moral and financial support which makes the programme a reality. The chairman further pledged to continue promoting the rich culture of Yorubaland.
The author, Alagba Lanrewaju Oderajo thanked God and Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade for helping realise his dream. He dedicated Ikumogunniyi to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde.
Alagba Oderajo described the work as a historical story that reflects the legacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo which teaches honesty, integrity, and love for the Yoruba people and their land. He noted that Ikumogunniyi was first produced as a film in 1986, first published as a book in 1991, adopted for JSS 3 students by the Oyo State Ministry of Education in 1993, and has now been republished for a new generation. He thanked attendees for their presence and gifts.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Wasiu Adewale Olatunbosun, Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, commended Hon. Olufade for sponsoring the event and described him as one of the best-performing chairmen in Oyo State. Dr. Olatunbosun praised the author’s in-depth research and use of words and idioms, saying the book will substantially promote Yoruba heritage and help young learners, especially secondary school students, gain deeper knowledge of their language and culture.
The commissioner also urged Yoruba writers, especially film makers and producers, to undertake thorough research before final production. “We have rich culture to promote in Yorubaland, stop producing misleading information,” he warned.
Notable attendees included Oloye Ismail Ashipa (Ibadan North LG Leader); Comrade Mustapha Ademuyiwa (APM Party Chairman, Ibadan North); Hon. Akeen Ayoade (Vice Chairman, Ibadan North LG and Political Head of Are Latosa LCDA); Hon. Adebola Taiwo Sakirat (Leader, Legislative Arm, Ibadan North LG); all honourable councillors, supervisory councillors and special assistants; Mr. Ajebisi Olabode (Head of Local Government Administration); and other community leaders.
