Book Publishers should embrace Yoruba writings

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Bola Olalere, Managing Editor at Delight Communications; Lanre Ari-Ajia, Yoruba Poet, Orosunnukun; Olutayo Irantiola, Atokun, Yoruba Lakotun; Mama Iyabo Aboaba, COO, Lork Enterprise LLP and Gbemisoye Ayano, Yoruba Author during the 2nd anniversary of Yoruba Lakotun held at Ethnic Heritage Centre, Ikoyi Lagos recently

We had a guest on our cultural show last, Yoruba Lakotun that mentioned that many publishers do not embrace Yoruba writings and we think it is a good thing to make people know that the best way to make African languages survive is by encouraging our writings.

Book publishers have been urged to embrace Yorùbá writings in order to encourage her writers. This was unveiled by Chief Gbemisoye Ayano, 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, Chief Ayano mentioned that many Yorùbá writers in recent times have not been encouraged by renowned publishing firms because it is assumed that such literatures are not economically viable, however, Yorùbá books are being used across all levels of education for pedagogy in Nigeria and has 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.”

While collaborating Chief Ayano, another upcoming Yorùbá poet, Lanre Ari-Ajia 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.

About Ethnic Heritage Centre

Ethnic Heritage Centre is located at 35A, Raymond Njoku Street off Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. It is one of the foremost learning centers that teaches Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa and French languages in Lagos. The center exposes people to the cultural elements surrounding Nigerian languages thereby promoting and preserving our cultural heritage. This is achieved through a modern, creative and innovative method of teaching. The center also has a well-stocked library with books in all the languages for everyone.

About Yorùbá Lákọ̀tun

It is a quarterly live audience participatory programme, hosted by Olutayo Irantiola, where different creative arts is celebrated and an interview session with a Yorùbá writer.

FOR PRESS ENQUIRIES Send an e-mail to [email protected] or call 07062021341, 08052048143