Legendary Yoruba drummer ‘Baba Onilu’ is dead

Renowned Ibadan drummer, Ayangbenle, popularly known as Baba Onilu, has passed away. A native of Ede in Osun State, he was famous for his drumming, particularly during the Osun Osogbo festival, where he played a special role.

His son confirmed the news, stating, “Baba Onilu has passed away overnight. May Almighty Allah grant him Aljanah Fiddaus.” He added that his father’s final words were, “La Ilaaha Ila lahu.”

Baba Onilu was a beloved figure at the University of Ibadan, where he entertained students during convocations. He also performed for corps members in Ibadan, earning him widespread recognition.

In April 2022, corps member and photographer Adisa Olashile captured striking images of him, which went viral on Twitter. Two of the photos were later sold as NFTs on OpenSea for 0.3 ETH each, earning approximately one million naira. Olashile shared half of the earnings with Baba Onilu, gifting him 500,000 naira, plus an additional 100,000 naira from donations.

Baba Onilu revealed in a past interview that he inherited his drumming skills from his father and never had formal training. “Drumming is the profession of my paternal grandmother’s lineage. I started drumming in Ibadan,” he once said.

His passing marks the end of an era for traditional drumming in Ibadan, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.