In a heartwarming turn of events, “Aṣiyanbí” the stage adaptation of the 1993 Yorùbá classic film “Ti Olúwa Ni Ilẹ̀” has brought together two Yoruba film industry veterans, Alhaji Kareem Adepoju (Baba Wande) and Tunde Kelani, after a long period of separation. His Imperial Majesty, Ooni of Ife Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi (Ọjaja II), played a pivotal role in facilitating the reconciliation on June 13, 2024. A delegation from the palace, led by the Secretary to His Imperial Majesty and accompanied by the executive producer of the stage adaptation project, Oloye Oladotun Taylor, and other key team members, visited Tunde Kelani at his home in Abeokuta Ogun State Nigeria.
This historic meeting signaled the beginning of a new chapter in the creative industry, as Alhaji Kareem Adepoju and Tunde Kelani put aside past differences and indicated their collective unbending support for the project. The stage adaptation of “Ti Olúwa Ni Ilẹ̀”, now titled “Aṣiyanbí”, has become the medium for healing and unity in the industry.
The team, comprising Akindeji Ibitayo, Project Coordinator and Supervisory Producer, Rọpo Ewenla, Director, Shola Balogun, Dele omo Woli Agba, and Jigan Baba Oja, joined Ooni and the House of Oduduwa in extending a hand of reconciliation to Tunde Kelani and Alhaji Kareem Adepoju, setting the stage for an irresistible artistic synergy that is to become the mark of “Aṣiyanbí”.
This reconciliation is a testament to the power of art and the importance of forgiveness and collaboration in the creative community. As “Aṣiyanbí” the stage adaptation of “Ti Olúwa Ni Ilẹ̀” is unveiled, it is clear that this restored relationship will bring a fresh wave of creativity and excellence to the production.