Enimere Àkànbí
The Ọ̀yọ́ State House of Assembly has passed a motion to honor and celebrate veteran Yoruba actor, Chief Lérè Pàímọ́, popularly known as Ẹ̀dá Onílé-ọlá, for his outstanding contributions to the promotion of Yoruba culture through theatre.
The Ọ̀yọ́ State House of Assembly made the call at its Yoruba plenary session while deliberating on a motion presented in by the Majority Leader, Honourable Sanjo Adedoyin, member representing Ogbomoso South Constituency.
The Motion urged the State Government to recognize and honor the Octogenarian Yoruba actor, Chief Lérè Pàímọ́, who is among the oldest in the industry.
It further called on the State Government to honor other veteran actors who have made impacts in the theatre industry.
While highlighting Ẹ̀dá Onílé-ọlá’s remarkable career and his role in showcasing Yoruba culture and values through his performances, the House noted that Chief Pàímọ́’s dedication to the arts has helped to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.
Honourable Adedoyin, in the Motion commended Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration for its commitment to sustaining and promoting Yoruba culture, citing various cultural initiatives spearheaded by the Government.
He noted that while efforts have been made in festivals and tourism development, traditional Yoruba theatre—once a stronghold of cultural storytelling—is gradually fading.
The Motion also urged the State Government to support the production of traditional Yoruba plays that promote wisdom and good character, and ensure their integration into cultural tourism.
It equally plans to hold a special plenary in honour of the theatre icon, and called for the funding of documentaries and exhibitions showcasing Chief Lérè Pàímọ́’s work.
“Yoruba culture is rich, and theatre is one of our strongest mediums to educate, entertain, and preserve our traditions. It is essential to recognize and support those who have dedicated their lives to ensuring these values do not disappear, one of thm is Chief Lérè Pàímọ́ popularly called Ẹ̀dá Onílé-ọlá’s” Honourable Adedoyin stated.
He further lamented that modern film productions have lost touch with Yoruba ethics, often promoting foreign influences instead of showcasing the moral values embedded in indigenous Yoruba storytelling.
Honourable Adedoyin, emphasized the importance of preserving theatre as a medium for educating younger generations on Yoruba values, saying, “Our ancestors taught us through storytelling, and legends like Chief Lérè Pàímọ́, have carried this torch. We must support them and ensure that Yoruba cultural expressions continue to thrive”
In his remark, Speaker Oyo State Assembly, Honourable Adebo Ogundoyin, acknowledged the contributions of Yoruba actors and assured that the Assembly would take necessary steps to ensure the implementation of the resolutions contained in the motion.
Ọ̀yọ́ Assembly Seeks To Preserve Yorùbá Culture, Urges Executive To Ẹ̀dá Onílé-Ọlá
Leave a Reply