Writer, poet, linguist, actor and globally acclaimed Ifa priest, Ifayẹmi Oṣundagbonu Elebuibon, remains a towering figure in the preservation of Yoruba heritage.
His contributions to cultural scholarship and spiritual practice continue to resonate across the globe. This was attested to on July 25 when he marked his 79th birthday with a remarkable 3-in-1 celebration that drew dignitaries, traditional rulers, entertainers and admirers from all walks of life to the ancient city of Osogbo, Osun State.
Aside from the birthday shindig, the event also featured dedication of The Ancient Philosophy International Event Centre and Ogbe Yonu Temple, alongside a housewarming ceremony and awards presentation in honour of the revered Araba Awo of Osogboland and Olu Iṣeṣe.
First class monarchs including the Ataoja of Osogbo, His Royal Majesty, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun (Larooye II); Timi of Ede, His Royal Majesty, Oba Munirudeen Adesola Lawal (Laminisa 1); Olufon of Orolu, His Royal Majesty, Oba Peter Oluwole Ipadeola Ilufemiloye (Akinyooye III); and Alayemore of Ido Osun, His Royal Majesty, Oba Olayinka Ishola Jokotola II graced the occasion.
Chief Lere Paimo (Eda Onile Ola) led the list of top entertainers that included Oyinda Duro Ladipo, Kunle Afod, Toyin Adegbola, Oyin Adegbenro, Tosin Olaniyan, and members of Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP), Osun State chapter.
The birthday celebration also attracted notable socialites and cultural figures like Chief (Mrs) Nike Okundaye (Nike Art Gallery), Chief Akintunde Ayeni (Yemkem), Olalekan Fabilola Masoyinbo, Tayo Bello (Wasere), Shina Ayomi Daniel (Oju Abuja), Tunde Daudu, and Singapore amongst several others.
The political class was equally not left out, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) in attendance. Ibrahim Taofeek Kayode and other stakeholders also joined to celebrate the cultural icon.
With the overwhelming turnout of dignitaries, Elebuibon’s 79th birthday ceremony stands as a powerful testament to his enduring legacy and influence.
