Alex Adedamola
The Onifa of Egbaland, Chief Ifashola Akanbi has urged students to embrace their cultural heritage as they pursue their academics.
The Chieftain made the call at the annual lafu and Ofada day ceremony of the National Association of Egba Student (NAES) MAPOLY Chapter held in Lafenwa Abeokuta.
Ifasola said there’s a need to revive the dying Yoruba culture which he revealed has been overtaken by civilization.
"Yoruba culture is going down which we need to revive.Culture gave birth to religion and languages and civilization but it’s quite unfortunate that civilization wants to kill culture, language, and religion.
"Am assuring you that we have culture from our various homes which we must not neglect."
Chief Ifashola in his closing remark, urged Nigerian students at the ceremony that it is important for them to know the historical background of each society.
"Let us know our story background, because our upcoming children will ask us."
"Take for instance, Ijaye, has a unique culture which is abomination for someone from Ijaye must not eat Epa( grand nut).Same with Ake children, they must not eat Igan gan Fish, any of Ake Descendant must not eat this fish or else fall sick seriously."
He also stressed on the need for the students to embrace local attires.
"Another one is dressing style, most of our young ladies are now wearing body revealing dresses which is not suppose to be. What legacy are we going to lay for our next generation?
"Our language is also important.English language has taken over all higher institutions, we are not saying you should not speak English but embrace your local dialects."
Also speaking at the ceremony, the D.P.O of Lafenwa Police Command, Moses Olaide called for support of the youths most especially the students to curb the high criminal cases in the community.
"One hand cannot lifts load on the head, Youths should also support the security personnel"
The D.P.O urged the students, youths and Nigeria security agencies to take responsibility as part of efforts to stop high increase of insecurity challenges in Nigeria.
