The publisher of Lagos Panorama Magazine has recently concluded work on a play-book titled IYALOJA. This book is an academic approach to immortalizing a worthy amazon of Lagos. It is conceived to engender generational transmission of the good virtues of Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji for the youths of today to learn from in an intellectually entertaining manner.
Omotayo Matthew Aderinola’s biographical play, Iyaloja, tells the story of the pioneer Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Alhaja Abibatu Asabi Alaba Mogaji from birth to death. The play does not only tell the story of the kind, compassionate and outspoken market leader and activist, it also portrays the leadership situation of Nigeria. By espousing the achievements of Alhaja Abibatu Asabi Alaba Mogaji during her reign as the Iyaloja-General, the playwright uses his play to teach political and social leadership lessons.
The structure of the play is good and well thought of. It is a three-act play. Act 1 tells the story of Iyaloja from childhood to adulthood before she becomes the Iyaloja. Act 2 tells her story as an Iyaloja and her exploits, influences and deeds. The writer skilfully brings to fore the political turbulence and crises that rocked Nigeria during this era. Act 3 tells a didactic yet fictional story of Iyaloja Karokatoshe and Chief Arigbabuwo. The Act however does not end at the demise of Chief Arigbabuwo but rather delves into the era of her son Bola Tinubu as Governor of Lagos State and the final moments of Iyaloja General Alhaja Abibatu Asabi Mogaji, an icon and mother of an icon.
This play-book is due for launch at the EKO FM Multipurpose Hall on 23rd October, 2017 to benchmark her posthumous 101th birthday.
