Aralola Olumuyiwa, commonly referred to as “Ara,” a well-known female talking drummer, has discussed her experiences with Nigerian Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, emphasizing the important lessons in humility she learned from him.
In a recent interview with the Nigerian News Agency (NAN) in Lagos, Ara stated her support for President Bola Tinubu’s proposal to rename the National Arts Theatre the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts.
Ara recalled her first meeting with Soyinka in 2007, when she performed at a gala in his honor. She recalled how Soyinka later invited her to his house and expressed interest in her choice of a talking drum. The drummer also praised Soyinka’s considerate act of sending her goodwill greetings on her 40th birthday.
Emphasizing Soyinka’s modesty,Ara shared, “I learnt humility from Prof. Soyinka, he does not allow anyone to carry his bag, I was only opportune to carry his bag once, that was after dragging it from him. This speaks volumes to me.”
Ara hailed Soyinka as a great respecter and lover of African culture, encouraging the next generation to follow his sincerity. She added, “Another virtue people should emulate from Soyinka is that he is a real and genuine individual, so, I challenge everyone, dare to be you, dare to be different, don’t be anybody.”
The talking drummer also urged the federal government to continue recognizing cultural heroes while they are still alive, citing Soyinka’s tremendous achievements at the age of 90.