Wale Asubiojo, the Ibadan-born sculptor and cultural historian, has unveiled a life-size bond stone sculpture of Iba Oluyole at the National Museum of Unity in Ibadan. The monument honours one of the most influential military and political figures in Yoruba history, credited with shaping modern Ibadan. During the unveiling, Ms Oriyomi Pamele Otuka stated, "This is to represent the fact that Ibadan was shaped by a warlord, and we are putting a representation of what Ibadan represents."
Asubiojo described his work as more than artistic expression, saying, "I believe art should do more than beautify the environment. Its aesthetics and historical facts should merge to preserve memory and document the past for generations yet unborn." He has dedicated his career to creating historically grounded sculptures, aiming to counter what he sees as a disconnect in Nigerian public art from indigenous stories. He noted that many public artworks in Nigeria reflect foreign narratives, and he seeks to ensure Nigerians see themselves reflected in their urban spaces.
The sculptor emphasized that research forms the foundation of his work, not just a preliminary step. His study of Oluyole revealed a man who began as a blacksmith, distinguished himself in the Owu Wars, and later became Bashorun of Ibadan. Asubiojo views Oluyole not only as a warrior but as a statesman and nation-builder. The artist stated his project was never about personal gain but about contributing to society and preserving culture through art.
Asubiojo calls for Nigerians to see themselves in public art while working within a national museum system that has long marginalised indigenous narratives. His sculpture of Oluyole asserts a local history often excluded from official spaces. Yet the state's role in hosting such work only after decades of absence raises questions about its commitment to cultural preservation. If memory is to be saved, it cannot rely solely on individual artists.
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