FirstBank-Sponsored Play Xrays Identity, Leadership to Celebrate Soyinka
…As Bank Pledges to Support African Arts Towards Global Excellence.
By Bolaji Israel
The arts, encompassing drama, music, dance, poetry, and visual arts, have long been recognised as an essential facet of human civilization, serving as powerful mediums for expression, communication, and reflection.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the arts possess the extraordinary ability to shape culture, challenge societal norms, and ignite social change. By questioning established practices, they provoke critical thinking and foster dialogue.
Throughout history, art has been a vital tool in addressing issues such as social inequality, environmental challenges, political corruption, gender roles, and racial discrimination. As a catalyst for change, the arts compel society to confront uncomfortable truths and inspire meaningful action.
At a pivotal moment in Africa, where calls for social dialogue have intensified as a means to resolve societal challenges rather than resorting to violence, vital topics such as leadership, identity, culture, values, unity, courage, love and communality have been brought to the forefront by the compelling fictional drama “Eni Ogun” (The Noble Warrior). Sponsored by FirstBank, the historical play was performed recently across Lagos and Ogun States in Nigeria as part of a global celebration of Wole Soyinka’s 90th birthday.
Set within a richly cultural and traditional African context around 1884/1885—coinciding with the era of British invasions—the story follows Oluwole ‘Lowo, an artistic embodiment of Professor Wole Soyinka’s persona. A noble warrior and prince, Oluwole yearns for a private life filled with hunting, teaching, and romance with his intended, Olasope. However, he must navigate formidable societal challenges.
Constrained by the complexities of society and identity, Oluwole emerges as a poignant conscience, confronting the intertwined conundrum of crown, corruption, and colonialism.
The play explores the themes of colonial invasion, love, leadership, cultural beliefs, religion, and corruption. The protagonist’s struggles serve as a catalyst for the community’s collective demand for positive change, ultimately leading to the natives’ triumph over colonial oppressors.
In the end, the narrative repositions the truths in history and highlights the consequences of cultural invasions while celebrating the fight for freedom against powerful colonial forces. Oluwole mirrors Wole Soyinka’s character, embodying similar traits as a courageous advocate and compassionate warrior throughout his remarkable 90-year journey.
Written and produced by 62-year-old Nigerian-American Afrocentrist philosopher Cash Onadele, also known as Aye-ko-ooto, the play was directed by Segun Oriade Adefila.
FIRST@ARTS: ENABLING CREATIVE ARTS
In an interview with THECONSCIENCE NG, Mr. Tosin Adewuyi, Executive Director of Corporate Banking at FirstBank, highlighted the significance of the bank’s commitment to the creative arts. As West Africa’s premier financial institution with a 130-year legacy, FirstBank proudly supports theatre productions through its First@arts initiative. This endeavour is particularly meaningful as it honours the global literary icon, Professor Oluwole Akinwande Soyinka, who celebrated his 90th birthday on Saturday, July 19, 2024.
Adewuyi stated, “The sponsorship exemplifies FirstBank’s dedication to culture and the creative arts, which reflect our identity to the world. It is also a means of supporting our heritage—rich in history, storytelling, and moral teachings—representing who we are as a people. This is where FirstBank shines.”
He elaborated on the production’s storyline, which illustrates life and society, revealing how a British Major relied on a Nigerian chief to implement his agenda. Ultimately, the new king ascended to the throne due to the community’s collective decision to demand change, demonstrating that everyone—individuals, institutions, and history—plays a crucial role in shaping society.
“At FirstBank, we champion performances and theatre as a financial institution committed to societal well-being. We also empower individuals to realise their dreams. We recognise that the arts present significant commercial opportunities for both institutions and the nation, and it is essential to elevate this to a global stage. This is where you see FirstBank play its part.”
He further assured, “As long as there is a pipeline of plays, FirstBank will provide a pipeline of support. With 130 years of heritage, we are intricately woven into the fabric of society. We have been here from the beginning, are present now, and will continue to support the creative industry in the future.”
“EVERY SOUL HAS A SHELL” – THE PHILOSOPHY
Onadele Aye-ko-Ooto unveiled the philosophy behind the play, revealing that he drew inspiration from a quote in Wole Soyinka’s play, “Death and the King’s Horseman” (1975): “Every soul has a shell.”
He explained, “I took this quote, distilled its essence, and wrapped literature around it to explore the persona. The story is rich and dense. My aim was to celebrate a dramatist with a drama. I sought the deeper meaning of the quote, combining romantic comedy with beautiful literature and laced it with the story of our people.”
Aye-ko-Ooto elaborated on the underlying philosophy: “Every soul has a birthplace, which represents identity; every soul is nurtured, reflecting culture; every soul is loved, embodying passion; and every soul has a noble purpose tied to tribal citizenship. When faced with adversity, every soul must find the courage of character. Ultimately, every soul carries a message, and that message is your inheritance.
“The essence is clear: if you fail to find your identity, neglect your citizenship, and do not believe in who you are or stand up for your values in troubled times, you leave your children without an inheritance.”
He continued, “The story delves into our past, present, and future. It recounts the invasions by the British, marking our past. The present mirrors this struggle, as we continue to grapple with the remnants of British colonisation. Looking to the future, our children are now immersed in social media, often lacking a profound understanding of their identity. They face an identity crisis, disconnected from their cultural roots. We have embraced foreign narratives while neglecting our traditional culture, favouring a Western lifestyle. How well do our children know our culture? Do we take the time to educate them?”
SOYINKA: THE MAN
Onadele described Wole Soyinka as an enigma—a literary cult hero, a champion for freedom, and an unwavering advocate for justice, who also has a deep affection for children. He shared a personal connection with Soyinka, emphasising the playwright’s commitment to preserving cultural artifacts as an undeniable ambassador of culture. To further promote Yoruba language and culture, Aye-ko-Ooto intentionally wrote the play partially in Yoruba, encouraging European audiences to engage with the language more deeply.
CALL FOR GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION
To address the alarmingly low level of cultural awareness and identity among young Nigerians, the playwright urged the government to embrace ethnography—a principle that prioritises narratives rooted in African stories. He advocated for increased funding, including prizes and grants, for works that celebrate African culture over those with foreign plots.
PARTNERSHIP WITH FIRSTBANK AND FIRST@ARTS
He called on well-meaning Nigerians to treat arts and their promoters with respect, rather than viewing them as beggars. Like FirstBank, he encouraged support for the arts based on merit. Reflecting on his own journey, he lamented the numerous rejections he faced, which nearly discouraged him.
Recalling his experience seeking sponsorship from FirstBank, he noted, “The bank was willing to review and support my proposal; they were non-discriminatory, passionate, fair, and kind. It was evident that they are truly culturally aware.”
In her remarks, Ms. Folake Ani-Mumuney, Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, stated, “We are proud to be part of this special tribute to Professor Wole Soyinka, a true literary giant whose contributions to literature and humanity continue to inspire us all.”
She emphasised that the initiative is another significant step under the Bank’s First@arts programme, which aims to support the value chain of Nigerian arts and cultural development for the growth of the nation’s creative economy. It also serves to recognise the contributions and achievements of Professor Wole Soyinka, Africa’s first Nobel Laureate.
