Wednesday, June 3, will forever remain special to the lover of Fuji music in the country as a special monument honoring the late Fuji music pioneer, Chief Dr. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister (MFR), was officially unveiled at the National Museum of Unity in Alesinloye, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The event was graced by various Fuji musicians, cultural enthusiasts, and government officials, including the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Isa Onilu, who praised Barrister for his evergreen and philosophical music.
Speaking further, Mallam Isa Onilu challenges Nigerian musicians to focus on producing enduring songs that will outlive them and secure their place in the memories of future generations.
The NOA boss said Barrister’s continued relevance nearly 16 years after his death underscored the value of creating music with lasting impact.
He praised the late musician for leaving behind what he described as a rich collection of timeless songs that have become his enduring legacy.
Onilu also urged supporters of the Fuji legend to remain focused on preserving and promoting his contributions to Nigerian music rather than engaging in unnecessary disputes.
“If almost 16 years after his departure, Barrister still lives in the mind and body of lovers of good, philosophical songs, it is a waste of energy joining issue with any group.
“They are already exhausted when they realised Barrister is even more influential in death than they had imagined,” he said.
Also speaking, the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, said the state government had previously honored Barrister with a posthumous award of excellence during activities marking the 50th anniversary.
He called on the late musician’s admirers to sustain efforts aimed at preserving and institutionalising his legacy.
In her remarks at the colorful cultural event, Ambassador Romoke Ayinde, the chief executive officer of Kayrom Lee Gym and Fitness Center, added that the music of the late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister is a prophecy and life-changer for many Nigerians.
She said, “His music has helped to correct many Nigerian parents who were reluctant to train their children. After listening to his music on family planning, they had a change of heart on the importance of training their children, and this reconciles many aggrieved couples.
Amb. Romoke, who is the Iyalaje Adinni of Oyo State, however, urged musicians to learn from the late legend to use their musical talents to correct the ills in society while adding that the works of Ayinde Barrister will help Nigerian youths to identify that there is beauty in music.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
