Ogun Traditionalist Calls For Preservation Of Yoruba Culture

ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – The Oba Ìsèse of Ogun State, Oba Ifarotimi Adifagbola Balogun, has urged traditional rulers and relevant stakeholders to ensure that Yoruba culture and traditions do not fade into extinction.

Speaking in Abeokuta during the commemoration of the “Orun Akogun Owu Festival” in honor of the Egungun Otonporo, Oba Adifagbola emphasized the importance of preserving the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

The festival, celebrated every three years, honors the memory of Chief Olufakun Olafimihan, the first Balogun of Owu Kingdom (1780–1853).

Oba Adifagbola Balogun highlighted the cultural significance of this event, which helps keep the history of Owu alive for future generations.

Oba Adifagbola expressed concern that modernity is overshadowing traditional customs, posing a threat to the future of Yoruba culture.

He warned that without concerted efforts to safeguard these traditions, they could be lost. He praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his contributions to Owu Kingdom’s cultural development.

Congratulating the sons and daughters of Owu, both at home and abroad, Oba Adifagbola emphasized that festivals like “Odun Akogun Owu” play a vital role in preserving cultural identity.

He also congratulated Oba Saka Adelola Matemilola, the traditional ruler of Owu, on the festival’s success.

Mr. Kazeem Rahman, a descendant of Olufakun Olafimihan, echoed the call for cultural preservation.

He stressed the need to maintain the celebration of Owu’s cultural relics and artefacts to ensure that future generations remain connected to their heritage, despite the pressures of modernity.