Nigeria Content Online

The memory of
theatre legend, Hubert Ogunde came to the fore on Tuesday March 30 in
Abeokuta, Ogun State, at the launch of his complete musical works, now
packaged for public consumption.

The ceremony
attracted dignitaries and high ranking traditional rulers from across
the South-West, including the Ooni of Ife, Okunade Sijuwade; Owa Obokun
Ijesaland, Adekunle Aromolaran,Alake of Egbaland; Adedotun Gbadebo; and
Awujale of Ijebuland, Sikiru Adetona, among others.

The launch event,
held at the Hubert Ogunde Hall of the June 12 Cultural Centre in
Abeokuta, was also attended by the children of the late theatre guru,
both at home and from abroad. The programme was sponsored by the Ogun
State government.

The musical package
contains 95 tracks, all composed and performed by Ogunde, who died 20
years ago. The ceremony featured artistic performances, a screening of
Ogunde’s famous Yoruba film, Aropin N’Tenia, as well as a rendition of
his classic song, Yoruba Ronu.

The Ogun State
governor, Gbenga Daniel–who was accompanied to the venue by his
counterparts from Osun and Ekiti States, Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Segun
Oni–later unveiled the work at the ceremony venue, which was filled to
capacity.

Ogunde’s offspring
trooped out to sing a number of their father’s favourite songs. As they
did so, many guests stood up in excitement.

Beneficial to all

Speaking on behalf
of the Ogunde family, one of his daughters, Sunbo Badamosi, said the
package of his musical work was for the benefit of all and sundry. She
also expressed the family’s appreciation to all who contributed to the
success of the package.

She added that plans were underway to revive the Ogunde Film
Village, while her father’s home in Ososa would soon be turned into a
museum for the benefit of culture. Badamosi also assured that the
family would not relent in their efforts to ensure that Ogunde’s legacy
lives on.