Some weeks ago, my Nigerian student Titi Ogunnaike and I embarked on a plan to record and ultimately retell “historical epics” from the region of the Yoruba. After much effort, she was able to obtain an audience with the King of Odogbolu, Oba Adedeji Ousegun Onagoruwa.
Odogbolu is the home of many important stories, perhaps most significant among them the story of the River Olu. It was our hope that the King would share the story with us so that we could more accurately tell it going forward. Our expectations were greatly exceeded!
The King arranged for the Chief Priest of the River to come and tell the authentic version of the story, which contained many differences from the version that has been more popularly known. As we pour over the recording and plan our next efforts, please enjoy the first little snippet of the day – with more to follow soon!