By Dansu Peter Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized the importance of preserving African cultural heritage, stating that desp...
By Dansu Peter
Ifá, an ancient Yoruba divination practice rooted in wisdom and intellectual development, is revered by traditional worshippers across Yoruba communities. Speaking in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo highlighted the need to uphold the authenticity of Yoruba culture during a celebration marking the 50th birthday of renowned female talking drummer, Olamuyiwa Aralola, popularly known as Ara. The event was held at the Green Legacy Hotel and Resort within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL).
The former president described Ara as a cultural ambassador who has broken barriers by excelling in a field traditionally reserved for men. He commended her dedication to preserving Yoruba heritage through the talking drum and mentoring younger generations.
“For whatever reason, we must preserve our culture,” Obasanjo stated. “Ara is a woman of culture and has lifted our heritage by excelling in what was believed to be exclusively for men. She has not only excelled but is also building a legacy by training young ones.”
Reflecting on societal changes, he noted, “When I was growing up, women were not allowed to climb palm trees or play the talking drum. Ara has shattered those taboos. The lesson here is to excel in whatever you do.”
Obasanjo also decried the relegation of African languages, food, and attire, urging Nigerians to prioritize their authentic heritage. “We must not joke with our culture. Yoruba is not vernacular; it is authentic and must be preserved.”
On the connection between religion and culture, he said, “I am a Christian and attended two churches today. That does not mean I should forget my culture. If anyone says Ifá is nothing, that person is a big fool. Before Christianity and Islam, we had Ifá. Orunmila means ‘Heaven knows who will be saved.’”
In her response, Ara expressed gratitude to Obasanjo for the recognition, recounting how she began playing the talking drum at age 10 in her father’s palace in Ondo. She encouraged parents to nurture and preserve cultural traditions.
Obasanjo’s remarks underscore the importance of embracing African heritage while maintaining personal faith, emphasizing that culture and religion can coexist harmoniously.
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