The Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, has launched a Yoruba literature book titled Ikumogunniyi, written by Alagba Lanrewaju Oderajo, donating ₦1.5 million to support the publication as part of efforts to preserve and promote Yoruba culture and heritage.
Speaking at the launch, Hon. Olufade said he met the author about a month ago and was impressed by the book’s rich portrayal of Yoruba traditions. He explained that the meeting inspired him to sponsor the printing of additional copies and host the book launch.
The chairman thanked guests for their moral and financial support, describing their contributions as instrumental to the success of the event. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting the cultural values and traditions of the Yoruba people.
In his remarks, the author, Alagba Lanrewaju Oderajo, expressed gratitude to God and Hon. Olufade for helping to realise his dream of republishing the book. He dedicated Ikumogunniyi to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
Oderajo described the work as a historical account reflecting the legacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, with lessons on honesty, integrity, and love for the Yoruba people. He noted that the story was first produced as a film in 1986, published as a book in 1991, adopted for Junior Secondary School Three students by the Oyo State Ministry of Education in 1993, and has now been republished for a new generation of readers.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Adewale Olatunbosun, commended Hon. Olufade for sponsoring the project, describing him as one of the best-performing local government chairmen in Oyo State.
Dr. Olatunbosun also praised the author’s extensive research and effective use of Yoruba language and idioms, noting that the book would contribute significantly to preserving Yoruba heritage and enhancing language education among young learners.
The commissioner urged Yoruba writers, filmmakers, and producers to conduct thorough research before producing cultural works, stressing the need to protect and accurately project the rich heritage of the Yoruba people.
The event was attended by political leaders, council officials, party executives, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders, who lauded the initiative as a significant contribution to the promotion of Yoruba language, literature, and cultural heritage.
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