The Obalufon Royal Dynasty of Ile-Ife has officially launched a groundbreaking book titled The Obalufon Phenomenon in Ile-Ife and Yoruba History.
The book presentation took place on Thursday at the Oba Sijuwade Memorial Hall, Enuwa, Ile-Ife, drawing a distinguished audience of royal dignitaries, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts.
Presiding over the occasion, the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesa, Oba Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II, expressed gratitude for the gift of life and commended attendees for their commitment to preserving Yoruba heritage.
He decried the declining awareness of historical roots among Yoruba descendants and called for a renewed sense of cultural consciousness.
In his welcome remarks, Prof. Muib Opeloye, the Asiwaju of the Obalufon Royal Dynasty, emphasized the significance of documenting Obalufon’s legacy, noting that his contributions to Yoruba civilization remain largely unwritten.
“Ife has not adequately preserved its history, and if we fail to document it, future generations may forget it,” he stressed.
Prof. Adebusola Adepoju, Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee, described Obalufon as a legendary figure whose influence shaped Ife’s history, particularly in bead-making, terracotta artistry, and other cultural innovations. She highlighted efforts by his descendants to safeguard his legacy through research and historical documentation.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso, Provost of the Postgraduate College at Osun State University and Pro-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, underscored the book’s academic importance and commended the Ooni of Ife for his leadership in preserving Yoruba history.
He revealed that the book was authored by four esteemed scholars—Prof. Adisa Ogunfolakan, Prof. Muib Opeloye, Prof. Abimbola Adesoji, and Prof. Saka Opeloye. It delves into critical aspects of Ife’s cultural development, including its glass-making industry, terracotta heritage, and the broader nationalization of Yoruba traditions.
“Our ancestors played a vital role in documenting history. Among the six branches of the Obalufon lineage, the Ajilesoro family once spearheaded Ife’s glass-making industry, but today, that tradition has faded,” Oyeweso noted.
He further pointed out that members of the Obalufon family in Ghana have continued the glass-making craft, emphasizing the need for Ife to reclaim its historical legacy.
The book review session, led by Prof. Gbenga Fasiku, Director of the Institute of Cultural Studies at Obafemi Awolowo University, and Prof. Adebusola Adepoju, provided an in-depth analysis of its scholarly contributions.
The reviewers affirmed that The Obalufon Phenomenon in Ile-Ife and Yoruba History is an invaluable resource for understanding Ife’s pivotal role in Yoruba civilization.
The event was further enriched with traditional cultural performances, adding a vibrant touch to the historic occasion.
A host of royal fathers and dignitaries from across Yorubaland graced the ceremony, reinforcing the significance of Obalufon’s enduring legacy.
Post a Comment