The story of Luwo Gbagida, the only female Ooni of Ife, was displayed in a powerful stage performance that challenged gender norms and revived a forgotten piece of Yoruba history. Titled Ooni Luwo and written by Dimeji Sodeke, the historical drama was staged at the University of Lagos’ Creative Arts Hall to wide acclaim.
The play traced the reign and legacy of the trailblazing female monarch, shedding light on her influence in the ancient kingdom of Ile-Ife. It served not only as a theatrical experience but as an artistic excavation of suppressed cultural memory,one that stirred emotions and sparked dialogue around history, power, and womanhood in traditional African society.
Directed by Oluwasegun Abiodun Jimoh, popularly known as Cee-m, the production was both a learning curve and a revelation. “It was my first time learning that a woman once ruled in Ile-Ife. Directing this gave me a deeper understanding of our history,” he said. “I believe others who watch this will walk away with a stronger sense of cultural awareness.”
Victoria Uzoechi-Adeniran, the supervising producer, described the play as a mirror for society and a message for the future. “This story isn’t just for women, it’s for everyone. But it does remind young girls that they, too, come from a heritage of leadership and strength,” she stated.
Boluwatife Babalola, who published the original text, highlighted the story’s urgent relevance in today’s gender conversations. “It challenges the narrative that African women are only fit for domestic roles. Women like Luwo show us that they’ve always had the capacity to lead, history just didn’t spotlight them,” he said.
The audience comprised students, art lovers, faculty, and invited guests, many of whom responded with a standing ovation. The play’s strong performances, rich dialogue, and cultural weight drew praise for illuminating a long-neglected story.
As the lights dimmed and the cast took their final bow, the message of Ooni Luwo rang clear: history must not forget the women who shaped it. The performance stands as a bold act of cultural reclamation, ensuring Luwo Gbagida’s name lives on in both memory and imagination.