Alaafin calls for preservation of cultural heritage

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, has called on Yorubas to preserve and promote the nation's cultural heritage. The traditional ruler of the Oyo kingdom made the appeal during the annual Sango Day celebration held at his palace on Tuesday. Adeyemi said that the people should learn to promote their cultural heritage no matter their religious inclination. The event featured praise singing and chants, and Bata drumming and dance in honour of the Yoruba god of thunder and lightning. Worshippers of other gods, including Esu, Egbe, Obatala, Ogun, Ogboni, Egungun, Osun, Ifa,Obaluaye and Oya, were also at hand to display the cultural heritage that the deities and beliefs represent. In an interview with Daily Times, the Chairman of Atiba Local Government, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi, said his local government sponsored the celebration in collaboration with Dr. Paula, a Polish national dedicated to Sango worship. "The socio-economic importance of the event cannot be over-emphasised," Adeyemi said. Sango was the third king of the Oyo Kingdom. His symbol is a double-headed axe, which represents swift and balanced justice. He is the deity behind Bata(double-headed drums), as well asthe arts of music, dance and entertainment in the Yoruba culture. The festival attracted people from all walks of life. In attendance were royal fathers from neighbouring towns of Saki, Igboho, Kisi and others. The event was capped with a performance by Fuji musician, Saheed Osupa.