- By Halimah Olamide
The six South-West Governors have on Monday endorsed the old “Iṣẹ̀ wà fùń Ilẹ wá” lyrics as the official anthem of the Southwest region.
The governors, after their meeting hosted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, had announced their decision, being one of the highlights of the meeting on Monday.
They said the decisioned symbolized unity and solidarity among the Yoruba people.
This song will now serve as a rallying cry for the region, celebrating its rich cultural heritage and fostering a sense of shared identity.
NPO Reports that the anthem, which was original to the government of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo in the defunct Western Region, was adopted as the state anthem for Osun under the administration of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
The anthem was used in all schools and at state functions throughout the state.
However, the Osun State House of Assembly had, in July 2023, repealed the state Anthem, Crest and Flag Law 2012 replacing it with a new law, which enabled the executive arm of government to come up with a new logo for the state.
Governor Adeleke was also there on Monday when the anthem was adopted in Lagos. The anthem will now be sang in Osun.