A cultural storm has erupted between Ogun and Osun states following a controversial claim by Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, that the traditional Adire textile originated in Osun but was “stolen” by the Egba people of Ogun.
Governor Adeleke made the remark in a recorded conversation with the Chief of Staff to President Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila. In the footage, Adeleke insisted that Adire (tye and dye) began in his hometown of Ede. When Gbajabiamila countered, noting he believed the fabric came from Ogun, Adeleke responded, “They stole it.”
This claim has sparked swift backlash from Adire traders in Ogun, particularly in Abeokuta, a known hub of Adire commerce and heritage. Leading the charge, Somodale Akamo, the Iyaloja of Kemta Adire/Kampala Market, denounced Adeleke’s statement as historically inaccurate and culturally offensive.
“We are shocked and disappointed by the utterance credited to His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke,” Akamo said.
“To suggest that the Egba people stole Adire is not only false but also deeply insulting. Egba women have sustained this cultural legacy for centuries.”
Akamo emphasized that Adire has deep roots in Egbaland, dating as far back as the 13th century, with its contemporary prominence emerging after the Egba settled in Abeokuta in 1830.
“Adire gained widespread popularity after our forebears moved to Abeokuta,” she explained. “Prominent historical figures like Madam Jojoyinola, the second Iyalode of Egbaland, played major roles in preserving and expanding the trade. She empowered countless women and helped globalize the Adire tradition.”
Describing Adeleke’s comments as “an affront to our collective heritage,” Akamo issued a direct call to the governor: “We demand that he retract this unfounded claim and issue a public apology. Our culture was never stolen — it was nurtured and passed down with pride.”
The debate over the true origin of Adire comes at a time when the fabric is enjoying renewed popularity both within and outside Nigeria, celebrated as a vibrant symbol of Yoruba identity and craftsmanship.
Observers note that both Ogun and Osun States have played active roles in promoting Adire, with artisans in each state contributing to its evolution. However, many believe historical records tilt the fabric’s origin and cultural centrality more toward Abeokuta.
“This is not just about fabric,” one cultural analyst noted, “it’s about ownership, pride, and history. Any attempt to rewrite that history must be rooted in facts, not sentiments.”
