The Trumpet Newspaper Issue 636 (November 13 - 26 2024)

TheTrumpet
Africans now have a voice... Founded in 1995
V O L 30 N O 636 N O V E M B E R 13 - 26 2024
Rikki Stein
(Photo - Rikki Stein,
Facebook)
Detectives
make two
arrests for
murder of
Ahmed
Deen-Jah
The story of Music Manager
- Rikki Stein
By Alaba Ilesanmi, Florida State University
Continued on Page 3>
Ahmed Deen-Jah
Detectives investigating
the murder of Ahmed
Deen-Jah who was
stabbed to death in east London
in 2017 have made two arrests.
Ahmed, who was 24 years
old, died after being stabbed in
the heart during an unprovoked
attack in a convenience store in
Custom House on the afternoon
of 2 April 2017.
On Friday, 25 October,
detectives rearrested two men [D
and E] who are both aged 26 on
suspicion of murder. They
remain in custody.
Detective Chief Inspector
Kelly Allen, who is leading the
investigation, said: “It has been
more than seven years since
Ahmed was murdered but my
team remains determined to
identify those responsible in
order to place them before a
court.
“We remain in contact with
Ahmed’s family and will keep
them updated on this morning’s
development.
“I would like to take this
opportunity to encourage anyone
who has information but has not
yet spoken with police to come
forward. Please do the right
thing.”
At 15:20hrs on 2 April 2017,
Ahmed had gone into a shop on
Continued on Page 4<

Page2 TheTrumpet NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024
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News
NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024
TheTrumpet
From Fela Kuti to Jimi Hendrix and
The Grateful Dead – the story of
music manager Rikki Stein
Page3
Continued from Page 1<
Hendrix, The Grateful Dead, The Kinks,
The Animals and The Yardbirds. Stein
managed the Moroccan Master
Musicians of Joujouka and, of course, the
politically outspoken Fela, who drove a
new west African music movement
called Afrobeat in the 1960s and 1970s.
Despite not knowing what a stereo
was or how to differentiate between
musical notes A sharp and B flat, he took
Continued on Page 4<
Fela and Rikki Stein (Photo - Rikki Stein, Facebook)
Rikki Stein, born into a regular,
middle-class home in the UK, has
had what must have seemed an
unlikely career. As a music manager he
has toured the world in the company of
music legends – from the late Nigerian
Afrobeat star Fela Kuti to American
rockers The Grateful Dead and
Morocco’s Master Musicians of
Joujouka.
The stories of the people working
behind the scenes supporting great artists
rarely get the spotlight they deserve. But
Stein’s recently released autobiography
Moving Music is as colourful and
compelling as the artists he’s worked
with. It serves as a time capsule of sorts,
capturing key moments in music history:
from the famous Woodstock festival in
New York in 1969 and the early years of
the UK’s Glastonbury Festival in the
1970s to the emergence of African music
on the global stage of the “world music”
era of the 1980s.
As a music scholar studying the
global obsession surrounding Fela
Anikulapo-Kuti and the cultural and
political contexts that drive it, I was
eager to read Stein’s memoirs. A
Fela and Rikki Stein (Photo - Rikki Stein,
Facebook)
significant portion of Moving Music
focuses on his long-standing friendship
with Fela and his role as his manager.
Stein continues to preserve and promote
Fela’s legacy.
He also proves himself to be an astute
storyteller as he weaves together a larger
narrative about a life of triumphs,
tragedies and cautionary tales. From its
lush descriptions to its intimate accounts
and previously unpublished photos,
Stein’s autobiography offers readers a
rare insider glimpse into the music
business. His writing is rooted in a deep
understanding of the industry and the
artists who drive it forward.
Who is Rikki Stein?
Rikki Stein was born Eric Stein in
1942 into a modest Jewish family in the
London suburb of Ilford – a teenage
friend gave him the nickname. Stein’s
restless curiosity and disdain for
conventional schooling set him on a
unique path. He concluded, at an early
age, that we are here to: Find out.
Investigate. Go into things deeply.
Change things. Also have a good time.
Walking out of Ilford County High
School on his 16th birthday, Stein
immediately set out on a life journey that
would take him from the gambling world
to opening coffee bars, real estate
ventures and, ultimately, his first love –
music. His passion for Jazz opened the
door to his career in music management,
at first organising Jazz venues.
His world is one of constant motion –
moving from country to country, artist to
artist, story to story. Stein has toured
some of the great artists and bands,
including UK and US rock stars Jimi

Page4
TheTrumpet
NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024
TheTrumpet Group
News
From Fela Kuti to Jimi Hendrix
and The Grateful Dead – the story
of music manager Rikki Stein
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Continued from Page 3<
on the role of producer for French 1960s
rock band Les Sunlights. It was the start
of his meteoric rise in the industry. Stein
later learned the art of recording and
mixing, a skill that no doubt shaped his
role in the remastering and reissues of
Fela’s music catalogues.
As artistic director of French label
Barclay Records in the 1960s his job was
to find, nurture and record artists. He
once travelled from France to the US to
meet the parents of a 16-year-old Randy
Crawford to sign her. He bungled the
deal. Crawford went on to be a star Jazz
and Soul singer at another label. Yet
Stein left an indelible mark on the French
music industry, the first to ensure that
artistic directors receive credits and
royalties for their work.
Rikki Stein and Fela Kuti
One of Stein’s proudest achievements
is his role in ensuring Fela’s rightful
place among the most iconic cultural
figures of the 20th century. He writes:
That an artist, 27 years after his death,
is able to achieve such results due, in
small part, to my efforts on his behalf,
serves as a vindication of my dedication
to defending and promoting his legacy.
Stein has earned widespread respect
within the industry for his commitment
to this legacy. Apart from working on the
remastering of the catalogue, he played
a vital role in taking Fela, the Musical to
Broadway. He also created the UK
version of the Felabration events and
Detectives make two
arrests for murder of
Ahmed Deen-Jah
Continued from Page 1<
Freemasons Road where he bought
a cigarette lighter. He left the shop
but returned around 30 seconds later
and was being followed by a person
wearing dark clothing, a balaclava
and gloves.
The suspect chased Ahmed
around the shop before attacking
him. He was stabbed in the heart
and also suffered a number of slash
Cover of Rikki Stein’s recently released
autobiography - Moving Music
supports several other projects focused
on Fela’s legacy.
British anthropologist Karin Barber
concludes, through her studies of West
African Yorùbá deities, that gods are
made by humans and are kept alive by
the attention and partnership of their
devotees. In my reading of Fela, I
explain how he “created his own myth,
and his fans continued to build that
mythology over the decades”.
Stein’s efforts have contributed to
shaping who Fela has become and how
we remember him. His work has helped
injuries to one of his hands. Police
were called and attended along with
London Ambulance Service and
London’s Air Ambulance.
Ahmed was given emergency
first aid, but despite the best efforts
of emergency services, he died at
the scene a short time later.
A post-mortem examination held
at East Ham Mortuary on 4 April
2017 gave the cause of death as a
transform the musician’s posthumous
reputation and his emergence as a deitylike,
omnipresent figure, ensuring his
influence reaches a global audience.
Beyond biography
Biographies are not just life’s story.
Music scholars like myself have long
used biographical writings as a point of
departure for uncovering and exploring
broader societal historical events,
political economies, and cultural
practices.
While Stein’s memoir is rich in
stories, it leaves the reader wishing for
more primary source material beyond
photographs, like letters and newspaper
articles. When asked about this in a
Zoom call, Stein admitted he had never
been much of a collector, a consequence
perhaps of his lifelong nomadic
tendencies.
For all his years promoting others,
Stein has rarely been one to promote
himself. Moving Music will undoubtedly
shape how posterity remembers him, as
he has contributed to shaping how Fela
is remembered.
Alaba Ilesanmi is a PhD candidate in
Musicology at Florida State University.
This article is republished from The
Conversation under a Creative
Commons license. Read the original
article
at:
https://theconversation.com/from-felakuti-to-jimi-hendrix-and-the-gratefuldead-the-story-of-music-manager-rikki-s
tein-239874.
stab wound to the heart.
Six people [A - F] were initially
arrested as part of the investigation,
although at this time, no one has
been charged.
Anyone with information that
could help police is asked to call the
incident room on 020 8345 1570. To
remain anonymous, contact the
independent charity - Crimestoppers
on 0800 555 111.

NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024 TheTrumpet
Page5

Page6 TheTrumpet NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024
Food & Drink
Jumbo Midlands celebrates grand
opening of latest Cash & Carry in
Birmingham
Jumbo UK - described as “The
Proud Home of African Food,”
recently celebrated the grand
opening of its vibrant new 60,000
square foot Cash & Carry in
Birmingham, showcasing an
impressive selection of over 1,600
products.
The grand opening was hosted by
Jumbo UK Group’s Director Mr.
Hassan Krayem and graced with the
presence of the Deputy Lord Mayor
of Birmingham City Council – Cllr.
Chaman Lal, along with CEOs of
major UK and international food
suppliers.
This remarkable expansion has
been made possible by the dedicated
efforts of Jumbo UK Group
directors Mr. Hassan Krayem and
Mr. Donald Abed, as well as the
entire team of committed staff.
As one of the fastest-growing
Afro-Caribbean companies in the
U.K, Jumbo Midland Ltd. is now
proudly serving thousands of
wholesalers, retailers, supermarkets,
and online stores nationwide.
Jumbo Midlands is promising
that customers who visit will
“discover fantastic products and
amazing offers!”
The Cash & Carry which has “a
vision to connect the world with the
finest, most authentic ranges of
International and traditional African
food,” is situated at: Unit 3-4 Euro
Innovation Park, South Road,
Birmingham B1 11ER.
Jumbo has a built reputation over
decades - of ensuring that its
products arrive with exceptional
lead times, providing customers
with goods that have maximum
product shelf life.
Deputy Lord Mayor of Birmingham City Council – Cllr. Chaman Lal cuts the tape
Jumbo Midlands Cash & Carry in Birmingham
Jumbo Midlands showcases an impressive selection of over 1,600 products
Jumbo Midlands showcases an impressive selection of over 1,600 productsThe expansion was made

Food & Drink
NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024
TheTrumpet
Tilda launches Limited-Edition Tin
in partnership with LOVO
Page7
At the launch of the Basmati Rice Tin
UK rice brand - Tilda has launched
its 2024 limited-edition tin,
created in collaboration with
LOVO - a non-profit organisation
dedicated to empowering and inspiring
women and their families.
The beautifully designed tin will be
available from November 2024 at
independent UK retailers, offered free
with a 2kg purchase of Tilda Pure
Basmati Rice for a limited time only.
Designed to celebrate diversity and
women’s empowerment, the limitededition
tin features intricate patterns that
embody sisterhood, while its vibrant flora
and fauna reflect community and
personal growth. The striking colour
palette of green, yellow, pink, and blue
conveys strength and gratitude - values
that resonate deeply within the LOVO
community. Not only is this tin visually
captivating, but it is also practical,
making it an ideal storage solution for
rice while symbolising support for a
noble cause.
To commemorate the launch, Tilda
and LOVO hosted a celebratory event in
Celebrating the launch of the Basmati Rice Tin
September, unveiling the limited-edition
tin to over 150 attendees, including the
Mayor of Southwark - Naima Ali.
Basmati Rice Tin
Highlights of the event included a
keynote address from a financial expert, a
global lunch featuring Jollof rice and
biryani, lively performances by
drummers and dancers, and a special
moment where guests were encouraged
to write their dreams and aspirations for
the future on a symbolic “Tree of
Aspiration” that stood at the heart of the
Showing off the Basmati Rice Tin
celebration.
In addition to this, last month, Tilda
also announced a £10,000 donation to
support LOVO’s initiatives, reinforcing
its commitment to community
empowerment.
Anna Beheshti, Head of Marketing at
Tilda, said, “This vibrant tin reflects the
varied cultures and communities that
Tilda serves. Rice is such an integral part
of meals worldwide, and we are thrilled
to partner with LOVO, an organisation
that aligns perfectly with our values of
diversity and empowerment.”
Ola Stephen, Founder and Director of
LOVO, added, “The tin is a true
celebration of diversity. It is not only
beautiful but also embodies the spirit of
the community we are nurturing
together.”
Tilda’s Pure Basmati Rice, approved
by the Craft Guild of Chefs, has been a
trusted kitchen staple for over 50 years.
This collaboration with LOVO reflects
Tilda’s ongoing commitment to
embracing life through diverse art, food,
and culture.
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Page8 TheTrumpet NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024
Opinion
The storming, stunning,
thumping return of Trump
“As democracy is perfected, the office of the President represents, more and
more closely, the inner soul of the people. On some great and glorious day,
the plain follies of the land will reach their heart’s desire at last, and the
White House will be occupied by a downright fool and complete narcissistic
moron” – H.L. Mencken, The Baltimore Evening Sun, July 26, 1920.
BY REUBEN ABATI
Iwas an Editorial Writer Intern on
the Editorial Board of The
Baltimore Sun and later the Los
Angeles Times sometimes between
1996 and 1997 but I do not think
that this gives me the right or the
entitlement in reflecting on the
recent US Presidential elections,
November 5, that the legendary
H.L. Mencken, master of the
English language, master columnist
has been proven right on the count
of every claim above. Is Donald
Trump who has now stormed back
as America’s 47 th President awaiting
Inauguration on January 20, 2025, a
fool and a moron? He was 45th
President and he has now thumped
his way back in a decisive manner -
the greatest comeback in American
history much better than the feat
recorded in 1893 by Grover
Cleveland, the 22nd and 24 th
President of the United States. In the
lead up to the elections, the polls
from CNN to New York/Siena
predicted that the race was too close
to call. There were talks about the
seven Swing States that would
determine the election. Donald
Trump has now made history by
winning in all the seven
battleground States: Michigan,
Nevada, Arizona, Arkansas,
Georgia, Wisconsin, North Carolina,
Pennsylvania – a landmark victory
Bitcoin rises following Trump win (Photo - QuoteInspector.com, CC BY-ND 4.0)
that gives him a resounding mandate
to reshape America. Yet, this was/is
a man who four years ago faced two
impeachment trials. He was also
accused of inciting an attack on the
US Capitol in January 2021. He
faced four criminal charges. In the
course of the campaigns, two
assassination attempts were made
on his life. He was even branded a
fascist. But he has now ended up as
the people’s choice, winning both
the popular vote and the Electoral
College vote, performing
significantly better than he did in
2020.
The magnitude of his return
speaks to “the inner soul of the
people” to use H.L Mencken’s
words, that is the American people
who have now re-hired him. At 78,
he will be the oldest leader to be
sworn into office in the United
States. He left office in 2021. He
2024 United States Presidential election results map by county at 11
November (Photo - Born Isopod, Wikimedia Commons)
was accused of making the
Republicans perform badly in the
2022 mid-term elections. But he is
back – the first convicted felon to be
elected as US President. He has not
just won victory for himself. He has
re-invented the Republican Party.
The ideology of liberalism, touted
much since the days of Franklin
Delano Roosevelt, America’s
longest serving President and a
Democrat, suddenly became a
byword for intolerance and rigidity
as the Republican elite rose and
Trump seized advantage of the
confusion. The pollsters were
wrong, dead wrong. This outcome
in the United States puts a mark on
the value of opinion polls in the
United States and the place of public
opinion in democracies. Even those
members of the Republican Party
who lined up behind Kamala Harris,
Continued on Page 10<

NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024 TheTrumpet
Page9

Page10 TheTrumpet NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024
Opinion
The storming, stunning, thumping
return of Trump
Continued from Page 8<
the Democratic Presidential
candidate have now been shown that
it is precisely the man that they
called “fascist”, vengeful and
divisive that the average American
has now voted for. This is about the
American mind. There are perhaps
more people in America like Trump
than there are of the likes of Kamala
Harris.
The questions have been asked:
What does Trump 2.0 as the victory
is otherwise called mean for
America, the world and specifically
Africa? Americans have embraced
their choice boldly and confidently.
The National Coast Guard was
called out in the event that there
would be a repeat of the violence
seen in 2021. The election was
described as a possible repeat of the
2000 election between George W.
Bush and Al Gore, but nothing of
sort happened. It wasn’t close to call
and there was no violence. Trump
had threatened to challenge the
results if the election was adjudged
unfair by him. He didn’t have to.
Even President Biden says that the
US Elections 2024 - The American people have spoken (Photo - Ted Eytan, CC BY-SA 4.0)
thing to do is to respect the wishes
of the American people because it is
what they want. Most Americans,
who turned out en masse – the
highest turn-out figure in 50 years,
voted Trump because they believed
the American economy would do
better with him. Despite the
achievements of the Biden
administration in creating jobs and
bringing down inflation, the average
American still thought Trump is a
better economic manager.
Americans held a largely negative
view about their country’s economy,
and they were suspicious of the
incumbents. Trump has promised to
place “America First”. He is first
and foremost American, so he
would Make America Great Again
(MAGA). In this regard, he is
determined to impose his right-wing
views about biology and Medicare.
He will drive away undocumented
immigrants and make America safe
for the citizens – those people from
Haiti whom he says eat cats and
dogs in Springfield, Ohio and those
from “a shithole country.” He will
reduce dependency on America by
the rest of the world by taking a
second look at NATO, climate
change and carbon emissions, the
oil and gas industry and America’s
relationship with the world. He will
take aim at the Paris climate accord.
He will ease restrictions on the oil
industry’s emissions of methane.
His win is not surprisingly a major
win for the big money elite. All the
three major US indexes have been
doing well since it became clear that
Trump and the Republicans were
poised to win. Crypto currency has
hit $80,000. Billionaire Elon Musk
who supported Trump has been
jubilating since. Trump promoted
crypto during his campaign, backing
a venture that had his sons involved.
In his earlier Presidency, he
dismissed crypto currency as a
scam. He is forever changing his
mind. And yet the people voted for
him.
His provincialism, some say
nativism or isolationist approach to
global politics has brought upon the
world a season of great uncertainty
and this has generated conversations
and measures around the world
about how countries and regions can
best protect themselves. Less than a
month ago, Russia hosted a meeting
of the BRICS economic partners
and invited new partners. America
is the largest economy in the world
and a superior power. With a man
who prefers insularity to open
engagements with the world, others
are obliged to create a multi-polar
world whereby America’s
superiority can be diluted by the
emergence of an alternative axis of
power. Over the weekend, the same
Russia in Sochi hosted Ministers of
Foreign Affairs from Africa where
President Vladimir Putin pledged
“total support” for African
countries. Yesterday, Prime Minister
Keir Starmer of the UK and
President Emmanuel Macron met
after Armistice Day ceremonies to
discuss free trade and Russia’s
invasion of Ukraine. Trump has
threatened to impose a blanket tariff
of 20% on imports as part of his
Continued on Page 11<

Opinion
NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024
TheTrumpet
The storming, stunning, thumping
return of Trump
Continued from Page 10<
United States of America Elections 2024 (Photo - CCNULL, CC BY 2.0 DE)
America First agenda. This could
see the UK economy losing as much
as 215 billion pounds next year and
affect inflation and interest rates.
For about a year, China has been
fighting a corrosive deflationary
trend with a combination of fiscal
and economic stimulus. Trump’s
emergence makes China’s situation
even more serious. Russia and
Ukraine, North Korea, South Korea,
Iran, Taiwan are also at the epicentre
of the emerging geo-politics. Trump
has promised that he would solve
the problem between Russia and
Ukraine in 24 hours. Does that mean
he would force Ukraine to negotiate
and cede territory? Trump’s politics
has driven up the self-interest
quotient in international politics. In
Asia, the Middle East and the
Pacific Rim, countries are preparing
for the return of Trump. America
being the most powerful country in
the world explains the fascination
with the American election.
Where does that leave African
countries? I doubt if Africa is likely
to be such a huge priority on
Trump’s agenda. Immigration is
likely to affect Africans, especially
Nigerians very badly. In 2025,
Trump has promised to end the
African and Growth Opportunities
Act (AGOA) which was introduced
by the US in 2000 to assist African
countries and promote economic
relations between the US and the
Donald Trump stages comeback (Photo - Free Malaysia Today, CC BY 4.0)
continent. American aid and
security partnerships with African
countries may also be reduced.
Nigerians like to think that they are
such an important part of geopolitics.
In the lead up to the
American election, many of our
compatriots back home here were
very emotional about the US
elections as the country was divided
into two camps: Trump vs. Harris.
Most of the people involved in this
campaign had no right to vote in the
American election. There was even
no way their choices would affect
America’s electoral process. In
Northern Nigeria, the video was
Page11
shown of persons waving the
American flag and declaring support
for Trump. Kamala Harris
supporters were all over the local
media pushing the narrative that a
Trump Presidency would be bad for
the world and that Trump is this or
that. It appeared as if Trump’s
supporters were more of the rightwing
evangelical extraction, with
the firm opinion that anybody who
mentions the name of God was
bound to win. Those who opposed
Harris felt a woman no matter how
Kamala Harris - late entry into the race (Photo - Free Malaysia Today, CC BY 4.0)
gifted should not be allowed to lead
men. With the possible exception of
those Nigerians who have American
citizenship and who chose to vote
from overseas, most people simply
talked. And Nigerians like to talk.
And they have not stopped talking
since the election was won and lost.
No one should be surprised if before
Trump’s inauguration in January
2025, some of his fans in Nigeria
begin to organize owambe parties
and buy aso ebi.
Whatever anyone says, Kamala
Harris lost the election not because
she was not good enough for the
job, but because she joined the race
rather late, only after President
Biden, her boss, was pressured to
step down in July. She deserves
commendation for her
determination, verve, and the energy
with which she sold her narrative
which re-energized the Democratic
Party. Age, mental acuity and
physical health are big issues in
American elections. Biden, 81,
Continued on Page 13<

Page12 TheTrumpet NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024

Opinion
NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024
TheTrumpet
The storming, stunning, thumping
return of Trump
Page13
Continued from Page 11<
looked frail and more fragile than
Trump, 78. By the time Democrats
brought a much younger Harris into
the mix, she had a shorter time of
preparation. She galvanized
tremendous financial support, but she
could have done better if she had
been in the race much earlier. Biden
has been blamed by the Democrats
for being the main cause of her
failure. Perhaps, he should have
withdrawn from the race earlier. With
all the support she had, Trump had a
bigger war chest over time.
American-style Presidential politics
is an expensive deal, requiring a lot of
money. Trump had his own resources.
He got remarkable support from the
likes of Elon Musk.
Be it in the US or Nigeria, money
is the engine oil of politics. Those
who are hoping that they could beat
President Tinubu and the APC at the
polls in 2027 had better begun now to
stock-pile the funds, otherwise they
might as well struggle in vain. There
are other ways in which the American
election reminds us of Nigeria. As
soon as Trump was declared winner,
his supporters, friends and party
members trooped to his golf resort in
Mar- a -Lago hanging around, trying
to get Trump to notice them. He has
made it clear that he would reward
those who stood by him in the last
three years and the few appointments
that he has made so far clearly reflect
that. Rogue and desperate guests have
taken up hotel rooms and apartments
in Palm Beach for the next three
months, struggling to get themselves
invited to the Golf Club.
Trump’s family members are also
likely to feature prominently in the
new administration as they did in his
first term: his children and in-laws
and of course his wife. I am
thoroughly amused that some
Nigerians are pushing the narrative
that Trump has family connections
with Nigeria. One of his daughters is
said to be married to a Lebanese-
Nigerian, from a prominent family
and that Nigeria needs not worry
about all those things Trump says. He
Outgoing US President Joe Biden (Photo - The White House Baiden-Harris, Rawpixels.com, CC0 1.0)
has to be nice to his in-laws. It is only
for President Tinubu to explore that
advantage. How naïve! As in Nigeria
all the pending court cases that Trump
has in court are likely to disappear.
And by the way, Trump is not
complaining because he won. He has
been congratulated by President
Biden, and he has been invited to the
White House on Thursday, this week,
for lunch. When he lost in 2020, he
did not congratulate Biden. He did
not attend the Inauguration. This is
the man who is now back in the
saddle as America’s President.
A Trump Presidency should be
seen in the light of risks, opportunities
and lessons. One stand-out lesson is
how Trump is first and foremost an
American. He wants to Make
America Great Again. Similarly,
those who want to lead Nigeria
should seek to Make Nigeria Great
Again. (MANGA). Let our leaders
begin to talk about MANGA!

Page14 TheTrumpet NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024
Opinion
Owa Obokun: Heritage,
reality, aspiration (1)
The illustrious 42-year reign of Oba
(Dr.) Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran,
the 40th Owa Obokun of Ijesaland,
has come to a close. As we bid farewell to
this venerable monarch, may his soul rest in
peace, freed from worldly burdens! May
God comfort the people of Ijesaland and
grant them solace during this difficult time!
Oba Aromolaran was installed on
Saturday, February 20, 1982. His remarkable
journey came to a close on Wednesday,
September 11, 2024. Evidently, his
illustrious reign beckons us to contemplate
the transience of human existence and the
impermanence of earthly authority.
I had a personal connection to
Aromolaran’s enthronement, having
witnessed a pivotal moment as a student at
Ijebu-Jesa Grammar School in Osun State.
One fateful evening in 1982, I saw Kabiyesi
brought to the palace in Ijebu-Jesa, to
perform a traditional rite, a precursor to his
ascension to the throne. This experience
resonates with the timeless wisdom: ‘Owá
kìí dá ni pa kí Ìjèbú-Jèsá má mò.’
Oba Aromolaran’s remarkable reign was
marked by unwavering integrity and
discerning thinking. As a well-read and wellconnected
ruler, his straightforward nature
and disdain for dishonesty earned
widespread respect. Through his steadfast
custodianship of culture, Kabiyesi embodied
purposeful living. He fostered
unprecedented progress and tranquility that
endeared him to his people.
Oba Aromolaran’s long and celebrated
reign brought peace, development and joy to
Ijesaland. As Oba Omololu Afilaka, Alatorin
of Atorin-Ijesa, aptly described: “Love him
or loathe him, under Kabiyesi’s wise
leadership, birds sang sweet melodies,
rodents flourished, and humans lived in
harmony.” Lawrence Adeyinka Haastrup,
Prince of the Bilaro-Oluodo Ruling House
and Owa Obokun aspirant, echoed this
sentiment: “Oba Aromolaran embodied true
leadership values: courage, integrity,
compassion, fairness and humility. At 86, he
left an enduring legacy marked by numerous
groundbreaking achievements, testament to
his visionary leadership.”
During Oba Aromolaran’s tenure,
Ijesaland witnessed significant educational
advancements. The long-awaited University
of Ilesa became a reality, fulfilling a 50-year
aspiration.
Among other notable institutions
established include: School of Health
Technology, Ilesa, which now offers
Ordinary and Higher National Diploma
programmes in Health, and regarded as one
of the best in Southwest Nigeria; School of
Science, located along Ijebu-Jesa Road;
Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Oke,
and private institutions like Interlink
Polytechnic in Ijebu-Jesa and Daboss
Polytechnic in Idominasi.
Oba Aromolaran’s reign also saw the
construction of a state-of-the-art Owa’s
Palace, considered one of the best in Western
Nigeria, including Edo and Delta States. The
befitting palace was built by Ijesa sons and
daughters.
The revered monarch passionately
advocated for an Ijesaman to become the
Governor of Osun State, and his relentless
efforts ultimately paid off. Under his
leadership, Ijesaland also witnessed
unprecedented representation in
government, producing two Deputy
Governors, four Federal Ministers,
numerous Commissioners, and several
National and State Assembly Members.
Under Oba Aromolaran’s
transformational vision, Ijesaland’s mining
industry transformed from potential curse to
tangible blessing. The Ilesa Geriatric Centre
showcases his lasting impact. His reign also
saw significant infrastructure advancements,
notably the groundbreaking dual carriage
road from Roundabout to Imo in Ilesa - the
first of its kind in Ijesaland. Once completed,
it will greatly enhance connectivity and
progress.
As the Deputy Chairman of the Osun
State Traditional Council of Obas,
Aromolaran’s role in fostering harmony and
cooperation among the traditional rulers
could not be wished away. Overall, Oba
Aromolaran’s leadership ushered in
tremendous progress and development
across Ijesaland. His passing leaves a void,
and he will be deeply missed.
Well, while some may view Oba
Aromolaran’s era through the lens of ‘speak
no ill of the dead,’ a more nuanced
evaluation of his reign reveals areas for
improvement. Despite notable
achievements, some critics argue that
Ijesaland’s development fell short of
expectations during his reign. A more critical
perspective suggests that during his tenure,
some Ijesa youth lost touch with their
cultural identity, embracing harmful
behaviours and professions, such as
cybercrime and prostitution, previously
unheard of in Ijesaland.
Historically, Ijesas are renowned for
their industrious nature, strong values and
unwavering commitment to integrity. They
abhor cheating, disrespect and dishonesty.
Instead, they embrace diligence and
perseverance to achieve success. Ijesas have
played crucial roles in establishing iconic
institutions and their entrepreneurial spirit
and contributions to Nigeria’s growth have
been remarkable.
The Ijesa people live by the principle,
‘Orisa bo o le gbe mi, se mi bi o se ba mi.’
(If you the deity cannot improve my
condition, then leave me to my fate). This
principle emphasizes hard work and
integrity. Oba Aromolaran’s leadership
embodied this spirit, but his purported
romance with autocratic tendencies
sometimes sparked conflicts with his chiefs
and subjects, raising concerns about
accountability and inclusivity. Added to
Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II - the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesha Land
these were land disputes which also marred
his reign, with controversies surrounding
land allocation and management affecting
some communities.
Despite the challenges during his reign,
the late Oba Aromolaran has established a
benchmark for excellence. As such, the next
Owa Obokun must not only meet but surpass
this standard. The incoming Owa Obokun
must demonstrate exceptional leadership
qualities to build upon Oba Aromolaran’s
legacy and propel Ijesaland to even greater
heights.
The succession process for the Owa
Obokun of Ijesaland is guided by the
Chieftaincy Declaration, as explained by
Osun State Commissioner for Local
BY ABIODUN
KOMOLAFE
Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dosu
Babatunde. According to the Declaration,
amended April 24, 1958, approved June 5,
1958, and registered June 7, 1958, the next
Owa Obokun will emerge from the Bilaro-
Oluodo Ruling House.
“The 13 kingmakers responsible for
selecting the next Owa Obokun of Ijesaland,
as stipulated by the Chieftaincy Declaration,
are: Obaala of Ilesa, Ogboni of Ibokun,
Ogboni of Ijebu-Jesa, Ogboni of Ipole,
Ogboni of Ilesa, Obaodo of Ilesa, Odole of
Ilesa, Risawe of Ilesa, Saloro of Ilesa,
Arapate of Ilesa, Lejoka of Ilesa, Loro of
Ilesa, and Lejofi of Ilesa. Notably, the
Declaration specifies that the next Owa
Obokun will emerge from the Bilaro-Oluodo
Ruling House.
“Once the mourning period ends, the
State government will formally initiate the
selection process by notifying the Local
Government in writing. The Local
Government will then inform the next Ruling
House, prompting the Ruling House to
convene a meeting under the family head’s
leadership. The purpose of this meeting is to
nominate a candidate, or candidates from
the Ruling House to succeed the throne.
“Upon convening, the Ruling House will
nominate a candidate, or candidates, to the
kingmakers in writing, to kick-start the
selection process. Following this, the
kingmakers will inform the Ministry of Local
Government and Chieftaincy Affairs via the
Local Government. The State government
remains neutral, with no preferred candidate
or vested interest, focusing solely on
overseeing the selection process as
mandated by law.”
Throughout history, heritage has served
as a nostalgic lens through which we view
our past, often glorifying triumphs while
overlooking shortcomings. Reality, however,
disrupts this nostalgia, forcing us to confront
the consequences of our actions. In
Ijesaland, this dynamic is especially
significant. Reflecting on Oba Aromolaran‘s
legacy reveals a heritage marked by
resilience and tradition, yet shaped by
challenges.
Amidst these complexities, aspiration
propels us toward a brighter future, where
the Owa Obokun’s throne embodies justice,
progress and unity. As the succession
process unfolds, questions surround Ifa
Oracle’s role. “Well, in the eye of the law, Ifa
doesn’t nominate Obas and the Declaration
didn’t talk about Ifa.” However,
“introducing dollars to Ifa, or Ifa to dollars
can spark controversy.”
To be continued.

Opinion
NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024 TheTrumpet
Owa Obokun: Heritage, reality,
Page15
aspiration (2)
Continued from Part 1
Ijesas are distinctive! They are known
for their discerning nature and
exceptional brilliance. Their rich history
reveals fascinating connections. For the
record, they are the masterminds behind
Osomaalo, a pioneering business
phenomenon in Africa. Ijesaland is credited
with originating the iconic ‘Nwa Boy’ style,
now a multibillion-dollar industry in
Igboland. Ijesas are found to have excelled
in various sectors; and this has gone a long
way in demonstrating their versatility. In the
1930s, Obafemi Awolowo, the legendary
Statesman, once resided in Ilesa as
Secretary to Daniel Ajayi Afilaka. At a time
in the history of Ijesaland, Olori Remilekun
Anike Agunlejika, wife of Oba Adeniran
Agunlejika, also held the esteemed title of
Yeye Oge of Edeland.
During the mid-20 th century, Ilesa
earned the nickname ‘New York’ of the
Southwest’ reflecting its economic and
Palace gates of the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesha
Land
cultural prowess. However, 42 years on,
Ijesaland’s development trajectory raises
questions: How did Ijesa Heartland sink to
this deplorable state and what
transformational impact has four decades
played had, and where does the region stand
today in terms of progress? When did the
abnormal become the norm, and what
pivotal moment marked the beginning of
our collective struggles as a people and
kingdom? At what stage did Ijesaland bid
farewell to tradition that news about Owa
Obokun’s demise could be broken without
beckoning to the deity of tradition?
Given Ijesa tradition’s emphasis on
procedure, when did the revered rites of
passage for a departed monarch devolve
into a spectacle, casually shared on social
media platforms? How can Owa’s subjects,
renowned for their adventurous spirit and
fearlessness in the face of distance and
unfamiliar customs, build upon their
ancestral legacy of entrepreneurship? Can
they break free from the cycle of repetition
and expect transformative progress, or will
they continue to yield the same results?
As we ponder the future of the Owa
Obokun of Ijesaland, tradition and progress
engage in a delicate dance. Will the Bilaro-
Oluodo Ruling House claim the throne, or
will leadership qualities trump lineage?
Considering the geographical and socioeconomic
diversity within the Ijesa
Kingdom, will unity and progress be
sacrificed at the altar of cultural heritage?
Will the kingmakers maintain their
oversight role, or will new checks and
balances be established? Considering the
age-old tension between tradition and
innovation, what mechanisms will be put in
place to ensure accountability and
transparency in the new Owa Obokun’s
reign?
Yes, our forefathers believed in Ifa
Oracle because that’s who we were; and
that’s who we still are! But then, this
paradox raises fundamental questions: Had
our colonizers genuinely embraced the
teachings of their sacred texts, would they
have condemned us to centuries of
bondage? What happens when religious
dogma is hijacked to justify oppression and
when does the sanctity of human life
supersede economic interests? Can we truly
speak of progress when built upon the ruins
of others? As we grapple with systemic
injustices, should we forget the profound
lessons of our shared human history - that
freedom is not free, and that true faith
demands action, not mere rhetoric?
Traditionally, members of the four
Ruling Houses in Ilesa are considered
Owa’s cousins, implying a sense of familial
closeness and trust. Ideally, this kinship
should grant the Owa unrestricted access to
any of the Ruling Houses without fear or
hesitation. Given their shared ancestry as
descendants of Atakumosa, when did the
princes and princesses of the Ruling Houses
last convene? Oba Aromolaran’s decision to
use the palace primarily as an office during
his reign deviated from Ijesaland’s
traditional norms. This departure may have
contributed to challenges in his relationship
Palace of the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesha Land
with the chiefs, highlighting the importance
of balancing modern approaches with
cultural heritage.
The Yoruba proverb ‘Bi ile ba san bi o
san, awo la n wo.’ reminds us that a
peaceful home earns respect from outsiders.
Unfortunately, Ijesaland is currently
grappling with significant challenges. The
children of Oduduwa are struggling, and
this struggle is evident to all. To move
forward, we must strike a balance between
our aspirations and available resources,
ensuring our ambitions align with our
capabilities. I am particularly concerned that
when leadership roles are filled by
individuals who don’t embody our values,
harmful influences can spread,
compromising our community’s well-being.
In such an environment, instability hinders
progress and development, ultimately
undermining Ijesaland’s potential.
The revered League of ‘Agba Ijesa’,
once a shining example of excellence, has
faced challenges in maintaining its high
standards. The shift in focus towards
material wealth as a primary criterion for
membership has diluted its original purpose.
Ideally, the League should represent men of
integrity, humility, discipline, and
impeccable character. Nonetheless, when
financial influence becomes a dominant
factor, the institution’s integrity is
compromised. This development has
contributed to the erosion of Ijesaland’s
values, undermining the kingdom’s
progress and stability.
Some Nigerians have noted that Oba
Aromolaran’s academic background often
influenced his approach to cultural and
traditional matters. While his theoretical
perspective brought unique insights, it
sometimes led to misunderstandings, such
as the dispute with the Ijesa North
Traditional Council. Francis Adedeji Bepo
and Isaac Ojo Ajanaku’s notable places in
history are especially noteworthy in this
context. To move forward, it’s essential for
future leaders to strike a balance between
theoretical knowledge and practical
By Abiodun Komolafe
experience.
“Ti ogiri o ba la’nu, alangba o le raye
woo.” (If there are no crevices in the wall,
the lizard cannot penetrate into the wall).
That Owa Obokun stool is a monumental
responsibility is not in doubt. As Haastrup
aptly puts it, “Owaship is a heavy load, a
complex issue that requires thorough
understanding to avoid regret.” Adeoye
Agunlejika also summarizes the
significance of the stool: “Owa Obokun is
the pivot around which Ijesaland revolves.
Virtually every aspect of life in Ijesaland is
influenced by him, as he determines the
course of many things. Moreover, he bears
the weight of his people’s destiny on his
shoulders. Simply put, if the Owa Obokun
falters, Ijesaland falters.”
Oriyomi Akerele, a member of the
Ajimoko Royal Family, stresses that
traditional leadership has evolved beyond
heritage and prestige. “Today, it’s about
tapping into community potential to drive
development, growth, and prosperity.” He
identifies several pressing issues in
Ijesaland, including insecurity, cultism,
inadequate education (particularly
vocational and life skills), and health and
hygiene challenges.
Effective leadership transcends
academic credentials – a plethora of PhDs
or Master’s degrees in Law, Engineering, or
Philosophy. Instead, it requires innate
intelligence, people skills, and emotional
intelligence. Traditional leadership, like
Obaship, is honed through community
interaction and immersion, not university
courses. As exemplified by Owa Agunlejika
and Oba Olajide Oyekanmi Adanlawo IV,
the Ogboni of Ibokun (1970-2010), a
successful Owa Obokun must connect with
both chiefs and subjects. Impliedly, the next
Owa Obokun should possess key qualities:
humility, accommodation, tolerance, active
listening, and meaningful engagement. He
must be willing to learn from his people,
understand their needs, and empathize with
them.
“Ile la ti n ko eso re ode” (Charity
begins at home). To effectively unite the
Yoruba race, Ijesaland must first address its
internal dynamics. In other words, “Olofin’s
children – with Alaafin as the eldest and
Obokun as the youngest – must resolve their
familial relationships before focusing on
broader unity. Unity would enable Ijesaland
Obas to present a united front, even to
presidential candidates.” By resolving their
internal dynamics and presenting a united
front, they can build a brighter future for
their people and contribute to the
advancement of the Yoruba nation.
To be concluded.
Komolafe wrote in from Ijebu-Jesa,
Osun State, Nigeria
(ijebujesa@yahoo.co.uk)

Page16 TheTrumpet NOVEMBER 13 - 26 2024
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