WORLD EGÚNGÚN FESTIVAL IN ÌBÀDÀN: OPEN LETTER TO THE ORGANIZERS
Appreciation for Governor Seyi Makinde and Honourable Wasiu Olatubosun
We, the entire Ọmọ-Ọkọ of Yorùbáland, both at home and abroad, extend our heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Ọ̀yọ́ State, for organizing the inaugural World Egúngún Festival—an unprecedented event in human history. We also deeply appreciate the efforts of the Honourable Wasiu Olatubosun, PhD, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Ọ̀yọ́ State. With Olódùmarè-given wisdom, he recognized the immense potential of our culture and, together with the Governor, decided to present it on a modern global platform.
Historical Comparisons and Potential Impact
Consider how the Olympics began in Athens and has evolved into a global event worth $13 billion today. Similarly, the Hajj, which started in the idolatrous Bedouin tribe of Mecca, now generates an average of $10-15 billion annually for Saudi Arabia. The Jerusalem Pilgrimage, rooted in the tribal gods of the Israelites, now brings in approximately $7.5 billion each year for Israel.
Today, few remember the origins of these events in ancient religious practices. The Olympics, once linked to the gods of Mount Olympus, is now a celebrated global event. The Hajj, with its roots in the Bedouin tribe, and the Jerusalem Pilgrimage, with its ancient tribal connections, have become major economic attractions.
Significance of the World Egúngún Festival
The World Egúngún Festival marks a significant milestone, establishing Ọ̀yọ́ State as the organizer of two major cultural events: the World Twins Festival in Igbo-ora and the World Egúngún Festival in Ibadan. These are remarkable achievements, and we, the Yorùbá in diaspora, are immensely proud of you, sir.
Suggestions for Future Improvements
To enhance future editions of the World Egúngún Festival, we offer the following suggestions:
1. Ensure Security: Guarantee the safety of lives and properties. Prohibit any religious extremists or troublemakers from attending the event. Tourists, who will be drawn to this colorful festival, will prioritize their security.
2. Broaden Participation: While this year’s festival may feature only Egúngún from Ibadan due to budget and logistical constraints, plan to invite Egúngún from neighboring states in future editions. Aim to include international participants, such as English pantomimes and masked dancers from China and Japan.
3. Promote Non-Violence: Address the criticism that Egúngún festivals are prone to violence. The government’s involvement aims to eliminate this issue. Support the transition to a violence-free event, showcasing the beauty and vibrant colors of the festival.
Incentives for Participation
Introduce prizes for the most beautifully decorated Egúngún, the best dancing Egúngún, the best singing Egúngún, and the best poetry-rendering Egúngún. Also, recognize the best drummers and troupes. Given the motivational power of substantial prizes in Nigeria, offer significant monetary rewards to encourage participation, particularly among the youth. We are confident that this investment will yield returns through consistent festival growth.
Conclusion
Thank you, Governor Seyi Makinde, for demonstrating that despite your religious affiliation, you recognize the value of our culture as a potential goldmine, ripe for exploration and benefit.
Ẹgbẹ́ Ọmọ-Ọkọ Yorùbá in Diaspora
