Former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines, Ambassador (Dr.) Yemi Farounbi, has lamented that the introduction of colonial capitalism eroded the traditional spirit of communalism that once bound the Yoruba people together.
Speaking at a public lecture held in honour of Asiwaju Yinka Fasuyi’s 70th birthday, themed “Celebrating Ijesa Development Plan (IDP): A Model for Community Growth and Self-Reliance”, at Zenabab Half Moon Resort, Ilesa, Ambassador Farounbi described the strides in Ijesaland as a “miracle” and a shining example of communal unity and purposeful leadership in Yorubaland.
Reflecting on Yoruba history, the elder statesman recalled that the last time the region experienced true unity and collective progress was during Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s era, particularly in the 1950s, when communities collaborated to establish schools such as Ilesa Grammar School under the Western Region’s free education programme.
The Veteran Broadcaster expressed concern that the rise of individualism and selfish politics has weakened regional cohesion and stalled national development. However, he noted with satisfaction that his hope for the Yoruba race was rekindled upon witnessing the remarkable transformation currently taking place in Ijesaland through community-led initiatives initiated by under the leadership of The Asiwaju of Ijesaland Chief Olayinka Fasuyi.
He cited key projects such as the construction of the new Owa’s Palace, the Ijesaland Geriatric Centre, the upgrade of the Osun State College of Education to the University of Ilesa, and the training of indigent students at the Leventis Foundation Agricultural School and the Federal Technical College, describing them as a testament to what unity and self-reliance can achieve.
Dr Farounbi who paid glowing tribute to the late Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba (Dr.) Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, for appointing Chief Yinka Fasuyi as the first Asiwaju of Ijesaland, described the decision as “divinely inspired” and pivotal in enabling Fasuyi to harness his leadership capacity for the good of the people.
He urged other Yoruba communities to emulate Ijesaland’s development model, stressing that genuine progress can only come when citizens take ownership of their growth rather than relying entirely on government intervention.
Also Speaking, the Chairman of the Occasion, Professor Folorunso Adewole, commended Asiwaju Fasuyi’s unwavering dedication to the social and infrastructural advancement of Ijesaland.
In the s, the Ajalaye of Ipetu Ijesa, Oba Adeleke Agunbiade Oke, and the Alademure of Ibokun, Oba Festus Awogboro, praised Asiwaju Fasuyi for fostering unity among traditional rulers — a feat they described as unprecedented in the history of Ijesaland The event’s Coordinator, Elder Wale Idowu, explained that the lecture was organized to honour Asiwaju Fasuyi’s exceptional impact on the rebirth and modernization of Ijesaland through his visionary leadership.
Images: Isaac Haastrup
Script: Toba Adesunmiboye
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