At 60, I Have A lot to Share With You About My Accomplishments In Life-Ogboni King, Aderounmu Reveals In Brazil
The king revealed further that his journey of life Has Been A Mix of Challenges and Triumphs, With Invaluable Lessons, and Meaningful Accomplishments
The world-wide king of Ogboni Iwashe fraternity, Oba (Ogboni) Adekunle Aderounmu clocked 60 on 25th, December 2024. Fielding questions from São Paulo, Brazil where he resides, in this Interview with Gbenga Sodeinde, the amiable and homely, Oba Aderonmu speaks on various issues.. Excerpts:
Question:Congratulations Kabiyesi on your 60th birthday celebration, can you tell us how you mark the day?
Answer: thank you, my family and others gathered together to celebrate me on my birthday, and I felt elated. It was an occasion held in São Paulo, Brazil when many people, friends, colleagues, associates, groups and individuals came together to express their love for me. It was another emotional moment for me when people began to say so many many good things about me, some were mentioning how I have been helping, and have saved their lives or relatives to the extent that some reminded me of some of my philanthropic gestures and how I have affected their lives positively. A lot of beautiful messages and telephone calls. It was so loving with positive attention and joy; as I didn’t know that the people cherished me so much as this, I all these expressions of love towards on my birthday and grateful to be surrounded by loved ones.
Question: Kabiyesi Can you let us into your background, and how far so far as you are 60 Sir?
Answer: Ah thank you very much for this question. At 60, I have a lot to Share With You about my accomplishments in life. I was born in Ibadan, Nigeria, and raised in a family deeply rooted in Yoruba traditions and spirituality. I moved to São Paulo, Brazil, over 32 years ago, where I have been active in preserving and promoting African culture.
Question: What are your childhood experiences?
Answer: Growing up in Nigeria, my childhood was filled with learning Yoruba traditions, attending cultural ceremonies, and being guided by father and elders in my community. It was a time of joy and discovery.
Question: As a child, did you practice any pranks?
Answer: Yes, I was quite playful as a child and often played pranks on my siblings and friends, but all in good spirits.
Question: Who are your childhood friends?
My closest childhood friends were individuals I grew up with in Ibadan and some in Abeokuta, most of whom were also deeply connected to Yoruba traditions.
Question: When did you become the Ogboni King, and how have things been since then?
Answer: I became the Ogboni King 4 years ago, and it has been a journey of responsibility and service. Leading the fraternity has allowed me to protect and share Yoruba spirituality globally.
Question: Let’s talk about your marriage. How did you meet your wife?
Answer: I met my wife during my visit to Brazil, when intending to do my pos-graduated in Biochemical in University of São Paulo. We were both enthusiastic about preserving our heritage, which brought us closer together.
Question: How many children do you have, and let us meet them by name?
Answer: I have four children: The first is Oluwakemi Aderonmu, an architect; next to one is Oluwadamilo an economist, the next is Leticia Aderonmu chemical engineer, and the last one is Brenda Aderonmu she is still studying. Each of them is unique and contributes to our family in their special ways.
Question: Do you have any of your children who have taken after your traditional religion and herbal practices?
Answer:Yes, one of my children is actively involved in learning and practicing Yoruba traditional religion and herbal medicine.
Question: Apart from this, Kabiyesi, you told us that you also write and publish books. What can you tell us about some of the books you have published so far?
Answer: I have written several books that explore African culture, Yoruba spirituality, and identity. Some notable works include Identity Taken Away from Us, Ifa: Philosophy and Science of Life and Esú. Recently, my focus has shifted towards children’s books, such as The Adventures of Young Adekunle. Through these stories, I aim to inspire and educate the next generation, ensuring our rich heritage and values are passed on to our future leaders.
Question: Before becoming the Ogboni King, what did you do as a profession, and what do you do for a living now?
Answer: Before ascending as the Ogboni King, I was deeply involved in cultural advocacy, working as a cultural activist, entrepreneur in the cultural sector, writer, and educator. Today, I continue to pursue these passions while also fulfilling my responsibilities as a custodian of Yoruba traditions, preserving and promoting our rich cultural heritage.
Question: How many awards and recognitions have you received, and from where?
Answer: Ah! I have received so many awards and recognition. In fact, they are uncomfortable.
I have received numerous awards and recognitions for my work in promoting African culture and Yoruba traditions. These honors come from various countries, including Brazil, Nigeria, and international organizations. Among the most recent are the titles of Ambassador of Peace, Honorary Doctorate (Dr. Honoris Causa), and recognition as a cultural and religious leader. All these accolades are tied to my efforts in preserving Yoruba culture and my dedication to supporting and uplifting my community.
Question: At 60, how do you feel? What can you say about your journey so far?
Answer: At 60, I feel deeply grateful and fulfilled. My journey has been a mix of challenges and triumphs, each shaping me into who I am today. It has been a rewarding path filled with invaluable lessons, meaningful accomplishments, and the privilege of contributing to my community and culture.
Question: At 60, do you have anyone or any group you’d like to recognize or thank?
Answer: At 60, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family, my mentors, the Yoruba community, and the Brazilian people, and particularly Brazilian government. Their unwavering support, trust, and encouragement have been invaluable throughout my journey. I am deeply humbled and honored by their belief in me.
I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who has been a part of my journey, especially to all my ministers who are and will continue to be a vital part of my reign. Your dedication and support are invaluable, and I am deeply thankful for your partnership throughout this journey
Question: What are your contributions to society so far?
Answer: I have made significant contributions to society by promoting African heritage and Yoruba traditions. This includes establishing cultural centers, writing educational materials to preserve and share our history, and mentoring the next generation to ensure our traditions continue to thrive. Through these efforts, I aim to inspire pride in our identity and foster a deeper understanding of our cultural legacy.
Question: Kabiyesi, thank you for giving us your attention.
Answer: You are most welcome. It was a pleasure.
