Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized the importance of preserving African cultural heritage, particularly the Yoruba divination system, Ifa, which he says predates the arrival of Christianity and Islam in the region.
Speaking on Sunday during a luncheon to mark the 50th birthday of renowned female drummer, Aralola Olamuyiwa (Ara), Obasanjo underscored the need to celebrate indigenous traditions. The event, held at the Green Legacy of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, was a celebration of Ara’s contributions to the preservation of Yoruba culture.
Obasanjo, a devout Christian, stated, “I am a Christian, I have been to two churches today, but anyone who says Ifa Orunmila is nothing must be a fool because Orunmila has been with us before the advent of Christianity or Islam.” He went on to express his respect for the Ifa system, recognizing it as an integral part of Yoruba identity.
The former President also discussed the marginalization of African culture, stating that elements such as food, language, and dress have been relegated to the background. “They even say Yoruba is vernacular, that is not right. Yoruba is Yoruba, it is authentic, and we must learn to celebrate what belongs to us,” he added.
Obasanjo shared the reason behind honoring Ara, noting that traditionally, certain roles in Yoruba culture were not considered appropriate for women. “While I was growing up, there were two things you would never see a woman doing. A woman would never climb a palm tree, and you would not see a woman drummer,” he explained. “But Ara, with her tenacity and focus, has broken this taboo. She is now known globally as a drummer.”
He commended Ara for her role in sustaining and promoting Yoruba cultural heritage, stating, “We now have a woman who can beat the drum better than the men. She is helping a lot to sustain our cultural heritage, and that is why I have decided to celebrate her.”
Obasanjo urged young people to draw inspiration from Ara’s success, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one’s passions with dedication. “Whatever good your hands find to do, do it well, and I will celebrate you. The lesson here is that nothing is unimportant in every area of human endeavor.”