Yoruba indigenous knowledge should be basis of development, says Alaafin

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, has stated that the Yoruba indigenous knowledge finds application and relevance in all spheres of human endeavour and forms the basis of development.

He made this assertion while declaring open a three-day international conference tagged, ‘The Yoruba Nation and Politics Since the 19th Century’ held in honour of Prof Joseph Adebowale Atanda at the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.

“A careful reading of the Yoruba intellectual traditions would reveal the extent and ramifications of the Yoruba system of knowledge, which if properly studied would reveal an uncommon commitment to inquiry, research, investigation and functional application of knowledge in solving human existential problems,” Alaafin said.

He added that a perspective understanding and appreciation of developments in Yorubaland since 19th century would no doubt put the race in a better stead to negotiate from the point of advantage and strength and to preserve the legacies of the forebears.

The monarch implored Yoruba scholars at the event to go beyond the limited requirements of paper presentation and be moved by a patriotic zeal to proffer solutions to the problems facing the Yorubaland today, which the race could face tomorrow.

“As we brainstorm on Yorubaland and politics since the 19th century, it is equally right to identify the basic ingredients of nation and empire building which for many centuries before the 19th century, demonstrated the robust contributions of our race to human civilization” he stated.

The event had in attendance the Executive Vice Chairman, Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy, Dr. Tunji Olaopa, who delivered the keynote address entitled, ‘Yoruba Nation: (dis) unity, National Politics and the Republican Spirit’.

Other dignitaries include Eleruwa of Eruwa, HRM Oba Samuel Adegbola (Akindele I), Orangun of Ila Orangun, Oba Abdulwahab Oyedotun, Dr. Wale Babalakin (SAN), acting Vice chancellor, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Prof. Ganiyu Olatunde, Prof. Toyin Falola, Prof. Anthony Asiwaju, Prof Ayo Olukotun, over 200 scholars, and children of Prof. Atanda.