The Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (IKODASS), in partnership with Kith & Kin Educational Schools, successfully staged the theatrical production “Owanbe” on Tuesday, July 16, 2025, at the prestigious Ikorodu Town Hall, in an outstanding display of cultural expression and educational innovation.
The event, which attracted a vibrant and high-profile audience, transcended the bounds of performance art, evolving into a powerful celebration of heritage, community values, and youth empowerment.
This landmark initiative forms part of IKODASS’s ongoing mission to revive cultural consciousness and promote intellectual development among the younger generation in Ikorodu.
The distinguished guest list included His Royal Majesty Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, Ayangburen of Ikorodu; Olori Kudirat Shotobi; Dr. Nurudeen Yekini Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development; Chief Adewunmi Ogunsanya, who chaired the occasion; Chief Ayodele Elesho; Asiwaju Kaoli Olusanya; Fatai Olukoga; and Aro Onasanya Onafowokan, alongside other respected community leaders.
Complementing the main play, the revitalized Ikorodu Cultural and Theatre Troupe (IKOCAT) enthralled the audience with a mesmerizing traditional dance, reinforcing the town’s commitment to sustaining its artistic heritage.
In his opening remarks, Alhaji Fatai Kolawole, Chairman of IKODASS, emphasized the play’s deeper significance, describing Owanbe as a symbolic effort to bridge the widening gap between modern individualism and the communal values that once defined society.
“This production reminds us that while collaboration is the heartbeat of progress, unhealthy competition continues to dismantle the communal structures our forefathers held dear,” he said.
He lauded the collaboration with Kith & Kin Schools, noting that the partnership serves to nurture student creativity, talent, and a deeper appreciation for Yoruba traditions.
He also introduced the “Ward-Raising Program,” a pioneering initiative that fuses storytelling, heritage, and performance to cultivate character and cultural literacy among students.
Alhaji Kolawole made a heartfelt appeal to the Lagos State Government to officially incorporate the Owanbe book into the recommended literature curriculum for secondary schools under the Ministries of Education, Culture, and Tourism.
“This would be a vital step toward restoring pride in our cultural identity and resisting the overpowering influence of foreign narratives in our classrooms,” he declared.
Dayo David, author of Owanbe, expressed overwhelming gratitude for the realization of his work on stage.
“Watching my words come alive in the hands of these brilliant students is both humbling and historic,” he said, visibly moved.
David described Owanbe as more than literature—it’s a tapestry of Yoruba life woven with humour, class dynamics, and communal truths.
He debunked shallow stereotypes often attached to Yoruba people, stressing that Owanbe reflects the essence of unity beneath the social celebrations that define the culture.
“Our parties are more than music and dance. They reflect a community’s strength, love, and shared humanity,” he added.
Asipa Asiwaju Kaoli Olusanya, Chief Executive Officer of Kith & Kin Schools, commended the students’ stunning performances, noting that most participants were not native to Ikorodu—a testament to their dedication to embracing and representing Yoruba culture.
“This play brought out their confidence, transforming naturally shy students into eloquent, expressive performers,” he said. “Education extends far beyond textbooks. What happened here today is transformational learning.”
He called on individuals and corporate bodies to support initiatives like Owanbe that promote holistic education, leadership, and cultural identity.
“If we can continue to fund and support programs like this, we are not just educating children—we are preserving a civilization,” he added.
Renowned media mogul and cultural patron Chief Adewunmi Ogunsanya (Odofin) praised the students’ vibrant rendition of Owanbe, describing it as “a masterpiece of youthful creativity.”
In a thrilling revelation, Chief Ogunsanya pledged to sponsor a professional video recording of the stage play for potential broadcast on Africa Magic, a major Pan-African entertainment network.
“This play deserves to reach the entire continent. If it’s well produced on video, I will ensure it airs on Africa Magic,” he promised, sparking thunderous applause from the audience.
This bold commitment elevated the evening’s excitement, reinforcing the belief that community-driven projects can achieve continental impact when supported by visionary stakeholders.
In his closing message, HRM Oba Kabiru Shotobi, Ayangburen of Ikorodu, expressed heartfelt admiration for the student actors.
He praised their enthusiasm and discipline, noting how their smiles and energy reflected deep joy and cultural pride.
“You’ve made us proud today. You’re the true ambassadors of our heritage,” the monarch said.
The royal father also commended Ashipa Kaoli Olusanya for his investment in arts education and reiterated the importance of sustaining initiatives that promote Ikorodu’s legacy.
He recounted how past cultural endeavours drew international attention to Ikorodu, noting that Owanbe has now joined the ranks of globally acknowledged heritage efforts.
“The United Nations once recognized our cultural footprint—today’s event affirms that we are still walking that proud path,” he concluded.
Written by Dayo David, Owanbe transcends fiction. It is a living, evolving expression of Yoruba identity—rich in music, dance, language, and meaning.
Its debut in Ikorodu stands as a cultural renaissance, one that speaks to shared humanity, tradition, and the power of storytelling in shaping future generations.
With students leading the charge and community leaders offering steadfast support, Owanbe has ignited a cultural flame—one destined to burn brightly across generations, classrooms, and even screens across Africa.
INN-HOUSE☆ 