The ancient city of Osogbo came alive on July 25 as renowned Ifa priest, scholar, and cultural custodian, Ifáyẹmi Ọ̀ṣúndàgbonù Elebuibon, marked his 79th birthday with a remarkable three-in-one celebration that drew dignitaries, traditional rulers, entertainers, and admirers from across the globe.
The event featured a grand birthday celebration, the 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 Olú Ìṣẹ̀ṣe.
The event witnessed a strong presence of traditional rulers, including the Ataoja of Osogbo, Timi of Ede, Olufon of Orolu, and Alayemore of Ido Osun, alongside several other Obas who graced the occasion in honour of the Ifa icon.
The entertainment industry was also well represented, with veteran actor Chife Lere Paimo (Eda Onile Ola) leading the list. Others included Oyinda Duroladipo, members of the Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (Osun State chapter), filmmaker Amb. Kunle Afod, actress Toyin Adegbola, Oyin Adegbenro, and Olaniyan Tosin, among many others.
The celebration also attracted notable socialites and cultural figures, including Chife Mrs Nike Okundaye (Nike Art Gallery), Chife Akintunde Ayeni (Yemkem), Olalekan Fabilola Masoyinbo, Tayo Bello (Wasere), Shina Ayomi Daniel (Oju Abuja), Tunde Daudu, Singapore, and several other prominent personalities who added colour and prestige to the occasion.
The political class was not left out, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, in attendance. He was joined by Ibrahim Taofeek Kayode and other stakeholders who came to celebrate the global cultural icon.
Ifáyẹmi Ọ̀ṣúndàgbonù Elebuibon remains a towering figure in the preservation of Yoruba heritage. A writer, poet, linguist, and globally respected Ifa priest, his contributions to cultural scholarship and spiritual practice continue to resonate across continents.
With the unveiling of new cultural institutions and the overwhelming turnout of dignitaries, the 79th birthday celebration stands as a powerful testament to his enduring legacy and influence.
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