Dimeji Bankole attends the launch of his Father’s book “Alake of Egbaland: The Succession dynamics”

           I was delighted to join family and friends in Egbaland today to celebrate the launch of the book “Alake of Egbaland: The Succession Dynamics” written by my Father, Seriki Jagunmolu of Egbaland.
This event offered Egbaland’s people the chance to gather and discuss the selection process for the current Alake. It was also an opportunity for the entire community to express solidarity as a nation. I was particularly moved by the rendition of the Egba anthem.
This book comes at a critical time for this country and the region. For years Nigeria has been suffering from a shameful lack of strategic leadership. We are without some of the most basic benefits that come with capable governance and government. In many ways, whether due to mismanagement or corruption, modern government has yet to be realised by Nigerians.
According to ancient lore, the Alake, or King, brought stability, security and economic development to our people for almost two centuries. The Kingdom thrived because of the processes set in place by our elders.
Today, Nigeria and Ogun State need leaders and governments that meet and even surpass the standards set by our traditions. There is still much we can learn from old traditions of dealing with social inequalities and injustice. Bringing these teachings and behaviours up to date with modern political and economic thinking can have a great impact on our country as a whole.
In this context, my Father’s book is important not only to Abeokuta or Egbaland, or even just to Nigeria; it is important to all of Africa. One of the lasting impacts of colonialism on this continent was the loss of our local history and traditions which were replaced by European ways of doing things.
While of course we should and do learn from the West about government, we must also learn from ourselves. I am grateful that this book will allow readers to connect with the past, our rich history and culture, even more so as it was written by my Father.

 One More photo after the cut  

Source: Dimejibankole.org