Yoruba Indigenous Knowledge Should Be Basis for Development, Says Alaafin
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, has stated that the Yoruba indigenous knowledge finds application and relevance in all spheres of human endeavour and forms the basis of development.
He made this assertion at an international conference entitled: ‘The Yoruba Nation and Politics since the 19th century’ held in honour of Prof. Joseph Adebowale Atanda at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye.
The Alaafin declared the three-day conference opened.
The keynote address entitled: ‘Yoruba Nation: (dis) unity, National politics and the Republican Spirit’ was given by Executive Vice chairman Ibadan School of government and public policy, Dr. Tunji Olaopa.
“A careful reading of the Yoruba intellectual traditions would reveal the extent and ramifications of the Yoruba system of knowledge, which if properly studied would reveal an uncommon commitment to inquiry, research, investigation and functional application of knowledge in solving human existential problems,†said Alaafin.
He added that a perspective understanding and appreciation of developments in Yorubaland since 19th century would no doubt put the race in a better stead to negotiate from the point of advantage and strength and to preserve the legacies of the forebears.
Alaafin implored Yoruba scholars at the event to go beyond the limited requirements of paper presentation and be moved by a patriotic zeal to proffer solutions to the problems facing the Yorubaland today and which the race could face tomorrow.
“As we brainstorm on Yorubaland and politics since the 19th century, it is equally right to identify the basic ingredients of nation and empire building which for many centuries before the 19th century, demonstrated the robust contributions of our race to human civilisation†he said.
Other dignitaries at the events are, Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola, Akindele, Dr. Wale Babalakin (SAN), Orangun of Ila Orangun Oba Abdulwahab Oyedotun, acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ganiyu Olatunde, Prof. Toyin Falola, Prof. Anthony Asiwaju, Prof Ayo Olukotun, over 200 scholars, the only daughter of Atanda and her brothers, among others.
