Renowned Author, and Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor(Digital Media), Òtúnba Yòmí Oyékàn, has recently shared his thoughts on the prevailing discourse surrounding Yorùbá culture and language on social media, particularly within Ondo Twitter Community. The discussion comes at a time when tensions have been escalating over the Yoruba/Non-Yoruba saga, highlighting the importance of understanding and embracing the diverse cultural landscape of Ondo State.
In light of the ongoing debates and conversations regarding Yorùbá identity and inclusivity, Otunba Yomi Oyekan emphasized the significance of, “Echoes of Yorùbá,” in promoting unity, appreciation, and respect for the rich heritage of the Yorùbá people.
Let’s break this down. The Yorùbá language isn’t just a simple language; it’s rich and diverse. When you mention Ilé-Ifè, Ìjèbú, and Ègùn people, you’re pointing out the different flavors within the Yorùbá culture. It’s like saying English isn’t just British English; there’s American English, Australian English, and so on.
Yorùbá isn’t confined to Nigeria alone; it extends beyond borders. It’s a language that carries traditions, histories, and identities.
Now, about dialects, think of them as variations within the Yorùbá language. Akure, Ondo, Ilaje, Akoko—they all have their unique ways of speaking Yorùbá. They’re like different accents or regional twists within the broader Yorùbá language.
So, when we talk about Yorùbá, we’re talking about a whole ecosystem of language, culture, and heritage that goes far beyond political boundaries. It’s something to appreciate and celebrate.