‘Politics & Publishing’: Again, Ibadan North Local Govt APC Chair, Hon TAOO Wins Poetry Award
In a colourful celebration of literary prowess and cultural heritage, Alhaji Taofeek Ademola O. Olayiwola, popularly known as TAOO, clinched the coveted Poetry Award for the second time with his masterpiece, “Ewì Àrìnyè“. The ceremony, held on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at the BNI Youth Centre, U&I Building, opposite Queen Idia Hall, University of Ibadan, marked a triumphant moment for the esteemed author and the vibrant literary community of Ibadan.
The venue, though modest in capacity, vibrated with an electric atmosphere as enthusiasts and dignitaries from far and wide gathered to honour the creative genius of Alhaji Olayiwola. Despite the event’s intention to maintain a low-key ambiance, the presence of luminaries such as El-Hadj Muda Ganiyu, a former Commissioner for Special Duties under Governor Ishaq Abiola Ajimobi, and Mr. Muideen B. Akerele, Managing Director of Epsilom Books Limited, elevated the occasion to a grand celebration of culture and intellect.
Among the select few invited by Alhaji Taofeek Ademola O. Olayiwola were notable figures like Hajia H.A. Akerele, a senior librarian with the Oyo State Library Board, and Mr. Jimoh A. Shittu, a retired educationist. Their presence underscored the significance of Olayiwola’s achievement and the enduring impact of his literary contributions.
The ambiance of the ceremony radiated with cultural vibrancy as guests revelled in the rich tapestry of Yorùbá language and traditions. Renowned personalities such as Ayọ̀ Adams and Waheed S. Olamilekan, known as Ọ̀rọ̀labí, graced the event, adding a layer of enchantment to the proceedings.
The announcement of the award winners sparked an eruption of applause and admiration, with Alhaji Taofeek Ademola O. Olayiwola’s triumph resounding as a testament to his unparalleled talent and dedication to the craft. Alongside him, Hajia Adewumi Fatimah Luqman, veiled in purdah, claimed the prestigious prose award with her captivating piece, ‘Ọ̀rẹ́ Àtàtà‘.
The winning piece,’Ewì Àrìnyè‘, delves into the intricate fabric of Nigerian society, offering a poignant exploration of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). Through free verse poetry, Olayiwola masterfully unravels the complexities of the union, shedding light on its members’ multifaceted identities as both contributors to the nation’s economy and participants in controversial activities.
In his extensive body of work, Ademola Olayiwola has established himself as a luminary in the literary landscape, with over 30 books to his name. From his early collaborations with esteemed publishing houses like Accessible (formerly Rasmed) Publications Ltd. and Extension Publications Ltd. to his latest triumph with ‘Ewì Àrìnyè‘, Olayiwola’s commitment to preserving Yorùbá language and culture resonates profoundly with readers and critics alike.
As the literary world celebrates Alhaji Taofeek Ademola O. Olayiwola’s remarkable achievement, his win serves as a testament to the enduring power of language, culture, and creativity in shaping our collective consciousness. With each verse penned, Olayiwola reaffirms his status as a literary luminary, enriching the tapestry of Nigerian literature for generations to come.
About the author:
Ademola Olayiwola is a household name in the literary and publishing worlds. He has written more than 30 books in the Yoruba language. Among his work with highly reputable local and international publishing firms are:
1. ÈKÓ WÈÑJÈLÈ, Accessible (formerly Rasmed) Publications Ltd, Ibadan.
2. AKÒWÉ KỌ WÚRÀ (WASSCE 2011-2015), Extension Publications Ltd, Ibadan.
3. PẸ̀Ẹ́-Ñ-TÚKÁ, Ewì Àràmọ̀ñdà, Extension Publications Ltd, Ibadan.
4. EWÌ ATÚNWÀṢE 1, Extension Publications Ltd., Ibadan.
5. EWÌ ATÚNWÀṢE 2, Extension Publications Ltd., Ibadan.
6. EWÌ ATÚNWÀṢE 3, Extension Publications Ltd., Ibadan.
7. BÁDÉRÌN (Eré Oníṣe), Ontop Publications Ltd., Ibadan.
8. ṢÓKÍ L’EWÌ OGE 1, Ontop Publications Ltd, Ibadan.
9. ṢÓKÍ L’EWÌ OGE 2, Ontop Publications Ltd, Ibadan.
10. ṢÓKÍ L’EWÌ OGE 3, Ontop Publications Ltd, Ibadan.
11. ỌMỌ BAÁLẸ̀ ADÉGBẸ̀SAN (Ìtàn Wuuru), Ontop Publications Ltd, Ibadan.
12. EWÌ ALÓJÚLÓDÌ (Unpublished), abbl.
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• Poetry • Poetry
