Ibadan has lost one of its most cherished traditional drummers, Ayangbenle, popularly known as ‘Baba Onilu.’ The elderly percussionist, known for his mastery of traditional Yoruba drumming, was reported dead in the early hours of today.
A native of Ede in Osun State, Baba Onilu was particularly famous for his performances during the Osun Osogbo festival, where he played a key role as a special drummer dedicated to the Osun deity. His rhythmic beats and deep cultural heritage made him a highly respected figure at the festival, drawing the admiration of attendees from across Nigeria and beyond.
Confirming his passing, his son shared the heartbreaking news, stating, *“Baba Onilu has passed away overnight. May Almighty Allah grant him Aljanah Fidarus.”* He also revealed that his father’s final words were, *“La Ilaaha Ila lahu.”* His passing has since been met with an outpouring of tributes from fans and admirers who cherished his contributions to Yoruba culture.
Beyond the festival, Baba Onilu was a familiar presence at the University of Ibadan, where he entertained students during their convocation ceremonies. His drumming also became a staple at various National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) events in Ibadan, where corps members eagerly looked forward to his energetic performances. His dedication to his craft made him a beloved figure among students and young Nigerians.
In 2022, Baba Onilu gained nationwide attention when Adisa Olashile, a corps member and mobile photographer, captured striking portraits of him. The images, shared widely on Twitter, quickly went viral, propelling the elderly drummer into digital fame. Olashile later sold two of the portraits as NFTs on OpenSea for 0.3 ETH each, equivalent to approximately one million naira at the time. Staying true to his commitment, he generously gave Baba Onilu 50 percent of the proceeds.
Overwhelmed by the unexpected financial blessing, Baba Onilu received 500,000 naira from the NFT sales, along with an additional 100,000 naira from well-wishers. He was also gifted a framed portrait of his viral image, a moment that brought tears of joy to his eyes. The recognition and support he received were a testament to the impact of his artistry, even in the digital age.
In a past interview, Baba Onilu had spoken about his lifelong dedication to drumming, revealing that he inherited the talent from his ancestors. “Drumming is the profession of my paternal grandmother’s lineage. I started drumming in Ibadan,” he had said with pride. His death marks the end of an era for traditional drumming in Ibadan, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations.
Peace OdekunleMarch 13, 20252 Mins read
