While Participating on TungbaFM Saturday Breakfast Program ” Saturday Special program with Oladigbo Olalekan Efficient” Adeola Soetan said parading the streets during festive seasons bring fond memories. He expressed his concern that the younger generation is becoming disconnected from their cultural heritage, particularly the Yoruba language and traditional practices.

During the interview on Tumgba100.9FM Lagos which was monitored by starnigerianews.com, Adeola Soetan passionately called upon parents to take the responsibility of teaching their children the Yoruba language from an early age. He emphasized that language is an integral part of culture and by neglecting it, we risk losing an essential aspect of our identity.

“A language carries the soul of a people. It is through language that we express our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. If we allow our children to grow up without knowing their mother tongue, we are depriving them of a vital connection to their roots,” Soetan stated.

He further emphasized the importance of children being familiar with the tenets and practices of Yoruba tradition. Soetan shared how his upbringing exposed him to the rich cultural heritage of masquerades in Abeokuta and Ibadan.

“I remember the excitement and awe I felt when I saw those beautifully adorned masquerades dancing through the streets. It was a sight to behold, and it instilled in me a sense of pride and respect for our traditions,” he reminisced.

In addition to his appeal to parents, Adeola Soetan also addressed traditional rulers, urging them not to neglect their traditional beliefs and practices in favor of embracing Christianity or Islam. He called it a form of self-betrayal and stated that traditional rulers should be proud custodians of their cultural heritage.

“The traditional rulers hold a significant position in our society. They have the power to preserve and promote our traditions. It is disheartening to see some of them abandon their customs and beliefs due to external influences. We must remember that a strong connection to our roots is what makes us unique,” Soetan asserted.

Adeola Soetan’s passionate appeal to parents and traditional rulers has sparked a much-needed conversation about the importance of preserving and promoting Yoruba culture. As the world becomes more interconnected, it is crucial to ensure that our younger generations remain grounded in their heritage and maintain a strong sense of identity.