By Chloe Inioluwa OKE
Students of the Department of Mass Communication, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, were taken on a cultural journey through the rich musical traditions of Ogun State during a programme themed "Echoes of Our Ancestors."
The event, organised by 200-level students offering SCM 204 (Ogun State Music and Communication), aimed to provide students with practical knowledge of indigenous music and its role in communication within Ogun State.
Speaking on the objective of the programme, the Head of the Department of Mass Communication, Dr. Semiu Bello, explained that the event was designed to help students gain a deeper understanding of the course through practical experience. He noted that veteran actors and performers were invited to share their knowledge and experiences with the students.
Similarly, the lecturer in charge of the course, Dr. Kunle Odule, stated that the programme was intended to expose students firsthand to the indigenous music traditions of Ogun State.
One of the guest speakers, Madam Temitayo Adejumo, described the programme as a reminder of the importance of preserving Yoruba language and culture. She encouraged Mass Communication students to take pride in speaking their native dialects wherever they find themselves, stressing that language remains a vital marker of cultural identity.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of traditional music and dance performances representing the four divisions of Ogun State. The audience was entertained with Egbe from Ijebu, Ogodo from Egba, Balafun from Remo, and Bolojo from Yewa, each reflecting the unique cultural expressions and traditions of the different regions.
During a lecture on the foundation of music, veteran actor Pa Tunbosun Odunsi explained the significance of songs and drums in traditional society. According to him, "People enjoy music without knowing how it came about." He noted that beyond entertainment, songs and drums served philosophical, educational, and communicative purposes in traditional communities.
In a separate interview, Odunsi reflected on his experience working under the late Hubert Ogunde, emphasizing that discipline is fundamental to success in the acting profession.
"The first instrument you need to succeed in the profession of acting is discipline," he said, adding that those trained under Ogunde were known for their strong work ethic, discipline, and commitment.
Also speaking at the event, veteran actor and comedian Pa Ayo Adesina highlighted the inseparable relationship between songs and drums in Yoruba culture.
"There is no song without drum and there is no drum without song," he said, explaining that every traditional drum is associated with a particular song and vice versa.
Sharing insights from his career journey, Adesina revealed that although he started in traditional stage plays, he later discovered his strength in comedy because audiences found his performances amusing. He advised aspiring actors to understand themselves and identify areas where they can excel.
Reflecting on the impact of the programme, one of the committee members, Adetumobi Olatoye Temidayo, said the event helped students reconnect with their cultural roots. According to him, the programme reminded students that "everything is not about Gen Z" and encouraged them to learn more about their heritage and traditions.
The programme concluded with a fashion parade and a closing remark by Dr. Odule, leaving participants with a renewed appreciation for the importance of preserving indigenous music, language, and cultural heritage for future generations.
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