Igbimo Omo Yoruba (Yoruba Descendants Council), a non-governmental organization aimed at reinvigorating the sociocultural values and heritage of the Yoruba people has been unveiled.
Members of the Board of Trustees and Yoruba culture enthusiasts were in attendance at the Ikeja, Lagos venue of the meeting.
In his opening remark, the chairman Board of Trustees of IOYF, Chief Rotimi Olowooyo, who was represented by Prince Eni-Oba Ololade Adedamola Onanuga said that the foundation aimed to create awareness among the Yoruba race about the significant cultural erosion within the Yoruba society.
He said: “IOYF will revive and rejuvenate our rich cultural heritage. It is set out to engage stakeholders in improving the fortunes of Yoruba homeland and combating damaging influences as well as to chart a new course of progress for the collective good of the Yoruba people.”
The convener, Adedamola Adetayo, said the Igbimo Omo Yoruba is essential at this juncture in Yoruba history.
He said: “After critically reviewing over a century of events in Nigeria, we recognize the urgent need to redirect our path. We are committed to preserving our OMOLUABI ethos and core values of diligence, hard work, and excellence to advance our progress within Nigeria.”
Explaining the foundation’s formation, Adetayo said he followed a comprehensive analysis of historical milestones, from the era of European contact and colonialism to post-independence developments, including the 1st and 2nd republics, the civil war, and the tumultuous political landscape leading to the 1993 election annulment.
Despite the return to democracy in 1999, he said that the Yoruba people have faced significant challenges that necessitate a strategic rethink.
Among other things, he said that the Foundation is aimed at tackling several pressing issues, including cultural erosion, urban-rural migration, and the “Japa” phenomenon (brain drain).
Adetayo emphasised the need to restore pride in Yoruba identity and address the socio-economic decline affecting many Yoruba communities.
Adetayo stressed the urgency of self-reliance: “We must wake up to the reality that NO MESSIAH is coming to rescue us. We are equipped to do what is necessary for our people and land,” he said.
He concluded by drawing inspiration from various Yoruba landmarks and deities, symbolizing a collective effort to uplift the Yoruba people. “From Jebba to Ilaje-Ese Odo, the spirit of our ancestors will guide us,” Adetayo said.
credit: @thenationnigeria
Igbimo Omo Yoruba