The ancient city of Osogbo was a centre of culture, tradition and celebration on Friday, July 25, as globally acclaimed Ifa priest, scholar and cultural custodian, Ifáyẹmi Ọ̀ṣúndàgbonù Elebuibon, marked his 79th birthday with a grand three-in-one ceremony that attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond.
The colourful event combined the celebration of his 79th birthday with the official dedication of The Ancient Philosophy International Event Centre and Ogbe Yonu Temple, as well as a housewarming ceremony and special awards presentation in honour of the revered Araba Awo of Osogboland and Olú Ìṣẹ̀ṣe.
The occasion drew an impressive gathering of traditional rulers led by the Ataoja of Osogbo. Other monarchs in attendance included the Timi of Ede, Olufon of Orolu, Alayemore of Ido Osun and several other royal fathers who came to honour the foremost custodian of Yoruba spirituality and culture.
The entertainment industry also turned out in large numbers to celebrate the cultural icon. Veteran actor Chief Lere Paimo, popularly known as Eda Onile Ola, led a delegation that included Oyinda Duroladipo, members of the Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (Osun State chapter), filmmaker Ambassador Kunle Afod, actress Toyin Adegbola, Oyin Adegbenro and Olaniyan Tosin, among other notable figures.
Prominent cultural personalities and socialites equally graced the event, including Chief Mrs Nike Okundaye of Nike Art Gallery, Chief Akintunde Ayeni (Yemkem), Olalekan Fabilola Masoyinbo, Tayo Bello (Wasere), Shina Ayomi Daniel (Oju Abuja), Tunde Daudu (Singapore) and several other distinguished guests.
The political class was represented by the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji, alongside Ibrahim Taofeek Kayode and other political stakeholders who joined well-wishers in celebrating the renowned Ifa scholar.
Widely regarded as one of the foremost authorities on Ifa tradition and Yoruba philosophy, Elebuibon has earned international recognition for his work as a writer, poet, linguist and spiritual leader. His lifelong commitment to preserving and promoting Yoruba cultural heritage has made him one of Africa’s most respected cultural ambassadors.
The unveiling of the new cultural institutions and the remarkable turnout of traditional rulers, political leaders, entertainers and admirers underscored Elebuibon’s enduring influence and lasting contributions to the preservation and promotion of Yoruba heritage on the global stage.
