Despite the challenging weather, with scorching sun giving way to intermittent rain, the community turned out in force to honor an individual who brought immense pride and recognition to Ajido Kingdom. The day's festivities began with masqueraders dancing in procession through the community, performing traditional rites and paying homage, setting the stage for the grand "Feast of a Legend."
Men, women, the young, and the old alike filled the sandy expanse of Aholu Thanji, eager to be part of what was described as an unprecedented celebration of a true legend. At the heart of this celebration was the promotion of Ajido's rich cultural heritage, vividly showcased through the presence of His Royal Majesty Saheed Sedonu Adamson, Aholu Topon Toyiaga 1 of Ajido Kingdom, as well as captivating performances by Sato dancers and the mystical Zangbeto display.
Last Saturday's event, tagged "Feast of a Legend," was an initiative by Bond Africana in collaboration with the Olatunji Family. It serves as a significant build-up to the upcoming centenary celebration of the legendary drummer, slated for 2027. "Feast of a Legend" is an annual cultural event conceptualized by Bond Africana, an organization dedicated to celebrating African heritage, history, and creativity.
The festival is designed as a grand homage to iconic African figures, both historical and contemporary, who have profoundly shaped the continent's narrative through their leadership, innovation, arts, activism, and cultural excellence. Launched as part of Bond Africana’s broader mission to preserve and promote African narratives, the festival skillfully weaves together elements of history, storytelling, music, and visual arts.
The event's Chairman, Mr. Abraham Olukayode Seton Hodonu, described the celebration as not only an "eye-opener" but also an "unprecedented honor" that had never before been bestowed upon anyone in Ajido. He urged the community to emulate the virtuous deeds of Dr. Olatunji, emphasizing that "if you do right, you will reap the fruits as we have done today.” Hodonu further announced a remarkable community initiative: “This type of ceremony has never been done to anybody in the history of this town. Your father has laid a precedence that has never been laid by anybody… As a community we will establish a hall of fame.
Speaking on behalf of the Olatunji family, Mrs. Modupe Maume Olatunji expressed profound gratitude to everyone who participated in celebrating "Baba Olatunji." She highlighted that Baba grew up in Ajido and was inspired from a young age to pursue drumming, a passion that eventually took him across the globe. “He always told us if you have a good name and you do good deeds, you will go far. And we are grateful that each and every one of you is here today to witness this occasion to celebrate and kick off his 100th birthday which will be in 2027,” she shared.
In a poignant tribute from Mwagale, Kozza, Tukie, Basi, and Iyabo, the family lovingly remembered Dr. Olatunji: “Baba, you lived as both a humanist and a legend. You were and still legendary. A Grammy-winning percussionist, a devoted philanthropist, a proud Pan-Africanist, a beloved father. And to us, a cherished grandfather.” The tribute continued, emphasizing his core belief in the power of family – biological, chosen, and global. “You cared for all of us with grace, strength, and unwavering love. And even now, beyond the veil, we feel your care guiding and uplifting us.
You gave us the greatest gift: a radiant legacy woven with vibrant fabrics, melodic songs, rhythmic movement, and mighty drum beats. We pledge to share that gift with the world.” The family affirmed their readiness and honor to carry his legacy forward, a "legacy of love, unity, and peace," concluding with reverence for his timeless wisdom: “rhythm is the soul of life.”