Book Publishers Should Embrace Yoruba Writers – Renowned Author, Ayano

Book publishers in the country have been urged to embrace Yorùbá writings in order to encourage her writers.

Renowned author, Chief Gbemisoye Ayano, stated this as the special guest at the 2^nd anniversary of Yorùbá Lákọ̀tun, dedicated to the memories of Alàgbà Adébáyọ̀ Fálétí, who passed on recently, at the event held at the Ethnic Heritage Centre, Ikoyi, Lagos.

According to the author of Ife Ikoko, Ayedaade; Ogani Tisa, Aseju Baba Asete and AkojopoEwiGbefe,Chief Ayano posited that many Yorùbá writers in recent times have not been encouraged by renowned publishing firms because it is assumed that such literature are not economically viable.

He however said Yorùbá books are being used across all levels of education for pedagogy in Nigeria and has gained global prominence.

Chief Ayano, the Afedetunluuto Akomolede Ipinle Osun and Aare Onpabi-ede Yoruba ti Ogba Yunifasiti Ife, stressed that Yorùbá writing is peculiar and he encouraged writers to properly write Yorùbá literature with the tonal marks.

In his words, “I want to urge my fellow writers in the language to ensure that tonal marks are used in Yorùbá literature. Once the tonal marks are missing; the meaning of the word might not be easily comprehended by the reader.”

While corroborating Ayano, another upcoming Yorùbá poet, Lanre Ari-Ajia said his ability to read and write Yoruba poetry set him apart during a poetry event.

He urged other young writers in Yorùbá language to keep writing because they will be preserving the history, culture and tradition of the race for posterity.

Other highlights of the event include the rendition of poetry to celebrate the Golden jubilee of Lagos State; entertainment news update; the rendition of the poetry of the late Alàgbà Adébáyọ̀ Fálétí and singing of his popular songs in various movies where he had cameos.

Cultural enthusiasts at the event were drawn from corporate and social Nigeria.

The quarterly Yorùbá cultural renaissance programme hosted by cultural aficionado, Olútáyọ̀ Ìrántíọlá is aimed at celebrating the great feats of Yorùbá writers and others who are projecting Yorùbá culture to the global community.

The literary programme has been an advocate for the growth of Yorùbá literature and our cultural heritage.