By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Publishers of books in Nigeria have been urged to embrace Yorùbá writings in order to encourage her writers.
This appeal was made by an author, Chief Gbemisoye Ayano, who was the special guest at the 2nd anniversary of Yorùbá Lákọ̀tun, dedicated to the memories of Alàgbà Adébáyọ̀ Fálétí, who passed on recently. The event took place at the Ethnic Heritage Centre, Ikoyi.
The quarterly Yorùbá cultural renaissance programme hosted by cultural aficionado, Olútáyọ̀ Ìrántíọlá, is aimed at celebrating the great feats of Yorùbá writers and others who are projecting Yorùbá culture to the global community. The literary programme has been an advocate for the growth of Yorùbá literature and our cultural heritage.
According to the author of Ife Ikoko, Ayedaade; Oga ni Tisa, Aseju Baba Asete and Akojopo Ewi Gbefe, many Yorùbá writers in recent times have not been encouraged by renowned publishing firms because it is assumed that such literatures were not economically viable.
However, Yorùbá books are being used across all levels of education for pedagogy in Nigeria and have gained global prominence.
Chief Ayano, the Afedetunluuto Akomolede Ipinle Osun and Aare Onpabi-ede Yoruba ti Ogba Yunifasiti Ife, stressed that Yorùbá writing is peculiar and he encouraged writers to properly write Yorùbá literature with the tonal marks.
In his words, “I want to urge my fellow writers in the language to ensure that tonal marks are used in in Yorùbá literature. Once the tonal marks are missing; the meaning of the word might not be easily comprehended by the reader.”
Another Yorùbá poet, Lanre Ari-Ajia, while echoing Mr Ayano’s view, said his ability to read and write Yoruba poetry set him apart during a poetry event.
He urged other young writers in Yorùbá language to keep writing because they will be preserving the history, culture and tradition of the race for posterity.
Other highlights of the event include the rendition of poetry to celebrate the Golden jubilee of Lagos State; entertainment news update; the rendition of the poetry of the late Alàgbà Adébáyọ̀ Fálétí and signing of his popular songs in various movies where he had cameos.
Cultural enthusiasts at the event were drawn from corporate and social Nigeria.
