Oluwo Laments Africa’s Historical Documentation Failure

The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, delivered a thought-provoking message on Sunday, asserting that Africa’s current developmental challenges are deeply rooted in its historic failure to properly document its early civilizations and rich beginnings. The monarch used the occasion of the grand finale of events marking his 10th coronation anniversary in Iwo to issue both a critique and a declaration of optimism for the continent’s future.

Oba Akanbi articulated a fundamental link between the lack of structured historical records and the continent’s slow progress, stating that the absence of detailed accounts has significantly retarded Africa’s development trajectory. He lamented the consequences of this oversight, declaring, “The failure that resulted from non-documentation of our rich beginning has placed us behind.” Despite this historical setback, the Oluwo maintained an optimistic outlook, reaffirming his deep belief in the continent’s potential: “Africa is the source of humanity. In my time, Africans will rise and Nigerians will smile,” he promised, calling on the continent to actively reconnect with its origins as a prerequisite for moving forward.

Reflecting on his decade-long stewardship in Iwo land, the traditional ruler highlighted the significant strides made, particularly in the realm of education. He proudly pointed out that Iwo land has become one of the nation’s leading producers of academic doctorate holders, attributing this success to a renewed community focus on learning. He reeled off the academic achievements under his reign, stating, “Iwo land values education more than ever before. Today, we are one of the highest producers of academic doctorate holders. Academically, Iwo land has to her credit three private universities, one polytechnic, a sports academy, and one Federal College of Education.”

On the political and economic fronts, Oba Akanbi asserted that he has successfully restored Iwo’s traditional standing, ensuring that the “traditional spirit of Oluwo is alive, very active, and agile beyond relegation.” He urged both residents and critics to prioritize collective development goals, dismissing distractions. He acknowledged tangible economic growth in Iwo land, citing improved security, a steady increase in new business investments, and the proliferation of hotels and event centres. While noting that market men and women are testifying to increased daily sales, he stressed the community’s continued need for “more production firms to boost employment.”

In a direct charge to his indigenes, the monarch encouraged them to actively attract investors, stating that stronger industrial activities would reduce dependency within extended families. He also issued a stark warning to Iwo-born political leaders, charging them to prioritize and aggressively promote the community’s interests at all costs, concluding, “Without political strength, delay may be denial.” He concluded by positioning his palace as an intellectual and cultural hub, serving as an exemplary model for the coexistence of tradition and modernity.

The grand finale was graced by numerous dignitaries, reflecting the Oluwo’s stature. Engr. Joseph Olasupo Olasunkanmi Tegbe, representing President Bola Tinubu, noted the positive impact of the Oluwo’s reign and the revival of Yoruba culture, assuring that the President would work to support Iwoland’s developmental projects. Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, described Oba Akanbi as a unifier whose work transcends Iwo land. Sunday Olufemi Oroniyi, the Osun State Commissioner for Water Resources, representing Governor Ademola Adeleke, lauded the Oluwo as a dogged ruler whose cooperation with the government has been immense, confirming that the monarch’s vital number four position in the Osun State Council of Traditional Rulers will be maintained. Notable guests included the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, the Owa of Ijesha land, Oba Adesuyi Clement Haastrup, and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, among others.