Ọláńrewajú Adépọ̀jù Biography, Education, Career, Controversies, And Death
Ọláńrewajú Adépọ̀jù, sometimes known as “Lanrewaju Adepoju,” was born in 1940 in the village of Abà Òkè Pupa in Ọ̀yọ́ State, Nigeria. A Yorùbá poet, writer, intellectual, and religious leader, he was largely self-taught in both Yorùbá and English, drawing extensive knowledge from the griots of his childhood.
Ọláńrewajú Adépọ̀jù Profile
| Name | Lanrewaju Adepoju |
| Real Name | Ọláńrewajú Adépọ̀jù |
| Date of Birth | 1940 |
| Date of Death | 10 December 2023 (83 years) |
| State of Origin | Ọ̀yọ́ State |
| Tribe | Yoruba |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Occupation | Yorùbá poet, writer, intellectual, and religious leader |
| Religion | Islam |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Net Worth | $50,000 |
| Copied from | contents101.com |
Educational Background
Being an autodidact, Adépọ̀jù taught himself to read and write in Yorùbá and English. His profound understanding of Yorùbá verbal arts and culture was cultivated during his time with the griots.
Career
Ọláńrewajú Adépọ̀jù embarked on a remarkable career journey, leaving an indelible mark in the realm of Yorùbá ewì poetry and cultural activism. Adépọ̀jù’s career unfolded as he worked as a proofreader in a newspaper house. His poetic talent, however, quickly emerged, leading to his employment at the Western Nigerian Broadcasting Service, where he performed poetry during the “Ìjíǹjí Akéwì” segment.
The poet resigned from his broadcasting role due to copyright disputes over his original work. This move marked a shift to an independent path as a poet and record producer.
Adépọ̀jù’s contribution to Yorùbá spoken-word poetry was prolific. He adopted various mediums, including vinyl, cassettes, and later CDs, to share his politically-charged and socially relevant poetry. His estimable output includes nearly a hundred spoken-word ewì albums.
He emerged as a poetic conscience for the Yorùbá-speaking nation, fearlessly challenging politicians and advocating for the masses. Adépọ̀jù’s activism led to periods of detention by military administrators who opposed his outspoken views.
Despite facing challenges and losing some supporters due to his political positions, the talent in Adépọ̀jù’s voice and words remained unquestionable. He stands among the most notable exponents of ewì spoken-word poetry in Yorùbá, leaving an enduring impact on the genre.
In the later phase of his career, Adépọ̀jù transitioned into a spokesperson role for politicians and administrators aligning with his perspectives. His multifaceted career showcased adaptability and an unwavering commitment to his craft.
Controversies
Adépọ̀jù faced controversy, notably resigning from the Western Nigerian Broadcasting Service due to copyright demands on his original work. He also experienced detention by military administrators for his activism.
Personal Life
While details about his personal life are not extensively documented, Adépọ̀jù was a multifaceted individual, transitioning from a proofreader in a newspaper house to a prominent poet, novelist, and later a religious leader.
Death
Ọláńrewajú Adépọ̀jù passed away at his residence in Ibadan, Oyo State, at around 7 pm on a Sunday evening the 10th of December 2023. The cause of death was attributed to old-age-related ailments. He left a lasting legacy as a veteran poet, music producer, and promoter of Yoruba culture.
Ọláńrewajú Adépọ̀jù Net Worth
Ọláńrewajú Adépọ̀jù’s was estimated to be worth around $50,000.
