Author: orunto

The Orunto of Owu Kingdom, Chief Abiodun Lasile, is set to launch a digital platform dedicated to showcasing the customs, traditions, and history of the Owu Kingdom and beyond. Orunto Owu Abeokuta (https://oruntoowuabeokuta.org.ng) will go live on April 1, 2025, serving as a hub for cultural enthusiasts, researchers, and members of the Owu community. It will offer historical narratives, traditional practices, and contemporary updates. Speaking ahead of the launch, Chief Abiodun Lasile said, “Our heritage is our strength, and it is our responsibility to pass it down to future generations”. “This platform will be a treasure trove of knowledge, a…

A call has been made for poets to harness the power of poetry as a vehicle for peace, inclusion, and social transformation. This charge was delivered by Dr. Lucky Aibeli, a Publishing Consultant and Senior Lecturer at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, during the 2025 World Poetry Day Lecture organized by the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Ogun State Chapter. The event took place on Friday at the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta. Addressing an audience of literary enthusiasts, students, and academics, Dr. Aibeli emphasized the unique ability of poetry to highlight societal ills such as discrimination, injustice, and human rights…

Abeokuta, the capital city of Ogun State in southwestern Nigeria, has a rich and fascinating history that reflects the resilience and ingenuity of its people. From its early beginnings as a refuge settlement to its modern-day prominence as a political, economic, and cultural hub, Abeokuta has played a significant role in Nigeria’s development. Origins and Early History The name “Abeokuta” means “under the rock,” which references the city’s geographical location beneath the imposing Olumo Rock. Abeokuta was founded in 1830 by the Egba people, who fled from the Oyo Empire’s expansion and the Fulani Jihad. The city’s founder, Sodeke, led…

In the realm of Yoruba culture, the history of Owu is paramount, with the revered Oduduwa, progenitor of the Yoruba race, being an integral part. Delving into the annals of time, we discover the fascinating story of Ajibosin, the first crowned Oba in history, who embarked on a journey with six wise men, including Orunto, to establish a territory and reign over his people.   The Significance of Orunto   Orunto, one of the six wise men, played a pivotal role in kingmaking, earning the title of Iwarefa. As kingmakers, they were the protectors of Ajibosin, administrators, and advisors to…

Abiodun Lasile is a highly accomplished individual who has made a significant impact in various fields. He initially gained recognition as a broadcaster for the Nigerian Television Authority, but has since become a prominent figure in shaping public opinion. After retiring from NTA, he has dedicated himself to writing and making progressive contributions to mass and electronic media. His literary works have been widely acclaimed and can be found in libraries, bookstores, and secondary schools throughout the country.   Abiodun Oladimeji Lasile (born 1st January, 1963) is a Nigerian, Owu Abeokuta from Agbole Orunto, Oke Ago-Owu, Abeokuta. A broadcast journalist/publisher,…

As I sit in stillness, surrounded by the whispers of the universe, I am reminded of the profound role that mediation plays in my life. It is a calling that has been woven into the very fabric of my being, a thread that weaves together with the tapestry of human experience. I recall the early days of my journey at Ekotedo (Ibadan), when the art of mediation was first revealed to me. It was as if the universe had entrusted me with a sacred responsibility – to stand as a bridge between individuals, to facilitate the flow of understanding and…

Nestled in the heart of Oke Ago-Owu, Abeokuta, lies the revered Orunto Descendants family compound, a testament to the rich history of Owu. For many decades, this iconic compound has stood proudly beside the Aafin Olowu, the palace of the Olowu of Owu, atop the hills overlooking the bustling town of Abeokuta. The compound, comprising multiple adjoining family houses, serves as a tangible connection to the Orunto family’s heritage and their significant role in Owu history. Its strategic location, adjacent to the palace, underscores the family’s esteemed position within the community. It’s worthy to note this historical evidence in Tracing…

Meeting the illustrious Wole Soyinka, popularly known as Kongi, a figure I had revered since my youth in Ibadan, profoundly altered the course of my life. Born in Ibadan, Oyo State, I was fascinated by his name, deeds, and activism, which kindled my passion for reading. I voraciously consumed stories, books, and publications like magazines, Reader’s Digest, and James Hadley Chase novels. Decades later, in the early 1990s, I had the honour of promoting Fela Anikulapo and Egypt 80 band in partnership with the Student Union Government of Obafemi Awolowo University. When critical funding was required, Prof. Wole Soyinka generously…

In today’s fast-paced world, reading is more essential than ever. Beyond being a source of entertainment, reading offers a multitude of benefits that can enrich your life in profound ways. Here are nine compelling reasons to cultivate a reading habit: 1. *Knowledge Highway*: Books are a treasure trove of knowledge, offering insights into history, science, philosophy, and countless other subjects. 2. *Enhanced Vocabulary*: Regular reading broadens your vocabulary, enhances communication skills, and improves comprehension. 3. *Memory Boost*: Reading has been shown to sharpen memory and cognitive function, keeping your mind active and engaged. 4. *Stress Reduction*: Losing yourself in a…

Narration: The Egba, a Yoruba group, currently resides in the central regions of Ogun State in southwestern Nigeria. In 1830, they sought refuge and settled in Abeokuta, maintaining formal independence from British rule until 1914.  The Egba are organized into the provinces of Ake, Gbagura, Oke-Ona, and Owu, each led by an Oba (king) known as Alake, Agura, Osile, and Olowu, respectively. Political power before 1914 was decentralised, with governance extending to townships and divided among war chiefs, civil chiefs, hunters, and trade chiefs. Historically, the Egba has been seen as an example of “aborted modernisation” in West Africa. Proximity…