On Sunday, January 26, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo made a strong statement, asserting that anyone who dismisses the significance of Ifa Orunmila “must be a bloody fool.”
Obasanjo shared his thoughts during an event in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where he was hosting the renowned female talking drummer, Olamuyiwa Aralola (Ara), to celebrate her 50th birthday. The celebration took place at the Green Legacy Hotel and Resort within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL).
The former President stressed the importance of preserving African cultural heritage, especially Yoruba traditions, which he pointed out existed long before the introduction of Christianity and Islam.
“Culture defines who we are. Sadly, many aspects of our culture—our food, language, dress—have been pushed to the background,” Obasanjo said. “Some even refer to Yoruba as ‘vernacular,’ but that’s not true. Yoruba is authentic, and we must celebrate what’s truly ours.”
He continued, “I’m a Christian. I’ve attended two churches today, but anyone who says Ifa Orunmila is insignificant must be a fool. Orunmila existed long before Christianity or Islam, and Ifa Orunmila’s message is that only Heaven knows who will be saved.”
Obasanjo also paid tribute to Ara, praising her as a cultural ambassador for breaking barriers in the male-dominated field of talking drumming.
“Ara is a woman of culture and has become an ambassador of our heritage,” Obasanjo said. “She has defied the stereotype that certain things, like playing the talking drum or climbing a palm tree, are only for men. She’s not just excelled in this, she’s also mentoring the next generation to carry her legacy forward.”
He urged young people to follow Ara’s example of excellence, adding, “Whatever good work you find to do, do it well, and I will celebrate you. The key takeaway is that nothing in life is insignificant in any area of human endeavor.”
