History was made at Ijebu-Ijesha in Osun State recently, when family members and associates of some veteran musicians, both living and dead, converged to celebrate their heros and music legends, Dr Orlando Julius Ekemode and his wife, Latoya Aduke; Pa Chris Ajilo and the late Sir Isaac Kehinde Dairo.
The palace of the HRM Oba Moses Oluwafemi Agunsoye, Abikehin-Ekun Agunsoye II of Elegboro of Ijebu-Jesa, was set agog as encomiums were poured on the legends as they were being honoured with chieftaincy titles, as well as giving them awards.
Dr Orlando Julius Ekemode and his wife, Latoya Aduke were honoured with chieftaincy titles of Gbelunuyi of Egboroland and Yeye Asa of Egboroland respectively.
Sir Isaac Kehinde Dairo was given a post-humous award, a recognition by the king to appreciate the great works of the Juju music legend and a revolutionary musician who made the use of combining the accordion with guitar and percussions popular.
The award was received by the sons of the deceased, Victor Ademola Dairo and Adedotun and other members of the family.
Oba Agunsoye expressed his delight noting that Ijebu-Ijesha is blessed with illustrous sons that had made their impact in music and other endeavours, adding “We are grateful that we are celebrating one of our own, especially Dr Orlando Julius Ekemode and his wife, Latoya, because of their immense contributions to the arts and music globally and lifting the music life of our people here since he relocated here many years now. Latoya who is not a Nigerian is like Ruth in the Bible, who decided to live with her husband and make meaningful impact.”
“We are happy that Ijebu-Ijesha is on the global map because of these men-I.K Dairo and even Pa Chris Ajilo. They are great potentials no matter the daunting challenges. This event is, indeed, historic for us all in Ijebu-Ijesha as we honour our musical legends,” he added.
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