When Ibadan stood still for Bola Are

History was written  again when gospel music legends, stars and other up-and-coming musicians ‘stormed’ Ibadan last Saturday to celebrate one of their own, a gospel music icon, Evangelist Bola Rachael Are, at the 40th anniversary of her popular hit Baba Ku Ise.

The event, which was the talk of the town, was graced by the Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Gbade Ojo; state’s House of Assembly Speaker, Honourable Adesina Michael Adeyemo; the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji; wife of the Kwara State governor, Deaconess Omolewa Ahmed, who was the chairperson of the occasion and the chairman, Pastor Abiodun Oshode.

The venue came alive when music legends, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi, King Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye (KSA), and Evangelist Toun Soetan arrived respectively as well as other gospel music stars, including Bukola Akinade (Senwele Jesu), Esther Igbekele, Bisi Alawiye-Aluko’s husband, Kenny Ologoara, Alfa Sule group.

The hall of grace of the popular event centre, Jogor Centre which was filled with dignitaries from all walks of life, fans and well-wishers, also had in attendance top clerics from different denominations across the country, while others, who could not make it to the event sent their goodwill messages.

In his message, Ajimobi, through, Pastor Ojo, described Bola Are, a legend who dignified herself to be one of the most respected gospel musician in Nigeria, adding “It is my joy to be part of this history. She is a worthy singer, disciplinarian, and true musician, who has impacted greatly to humanity through her music.”

In her remarks, Are, appreciated everyone that ensured to the success of the event, just as she thanked God for her successful career.

She added, “I thank God for everything. The journey looks rosy, but it is not. One of the painful experiences I would never forget was when I lost my husband when I was abroad doing my thing (music). But, I thank God for the grace to push on, as well as keeping the bond in the family. The celebration of Baba Ku Ise is very significant. Aside the fact that it has become an evergreen song, I am glad to exalt God for making the song an instrument of wonders and miracle.”

In a bid to assit up-and-coming artistes, Bola Are, who has produced 79 albums in her career, also launched a music academy, the Bola Are Gospel Music Institute at the event.

The high point of the event was the scintillating performance by KSA and Obey.