Edited by Olatunji Eunice
Tunmibi had never been to Ijebu Oru before. He was born and brought up in Lagos, where everything was fast, noisy, and full of big, tall buildings.
But this August, during the long holidays, his parents said something special was happening in his hometown and it is called the Olofin Festival.
“Who is Olofin?” Tunmibi asked his daddy as they rode the bus to his hometown.
“Olofin Adimula was a great leader who brought our people from Ile-Ife to this very land,” his daddy explained. “He was wise, brave, and guided us through many challenges.”
When they arrived in Ijebu Oru, the whole town was decorated with colorful cloths, palm fronds, and talking drums. Chiefs in their majestic agbadas walked in a line, while women sang and children danced around the shrine.
His daddy pointed to a group of elders seated under a tree and said, “They’re about to tell the story of our journey. Listen closely.” Tunmibi sat comfortably in his chair and listened
“Olofin crossed rivers and forests,” one elder began, “so that we could have a place we call home today. He taught us to be hardworking and united!”
Just like Olofin, we must work hard and stick together as a family and community.
Later that evening, Tunmibi helped his cousins and nieces to clean the house and compound. They swept the floor, washed the dishes, and served food to visitors.
Tunmibi thought: “Maybe this is what daddy meant by unity and hard work.”
The next morning, a special children’s session was held by his grandparents. They were taught the names of brave women, wise chiefs, and songs that had been passed down for generations.
Tunmibi sang loudly; his heart was full. His grandpa said, “The festival wasn’t just about dancing and drums. It is about remembering where you came from and being proud of it.”
Tunmibi learnt that:
- Our heroes matter. They paved the way for us to live freely today.
- Helping at home or at school shows unity and respect.
- Knowing your history helps you understand your identity
That night, as fireworks lit into the sky, Tunmibi looked towards the sky and whispered to himself, “I want to be wise and brave like Olofin one day.”
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