By Tunde Busari
Before the incursion of western civilization into this part of the world in the 19th century, the Yorubas derived the strength of their ethno-linguistic group from its non-negotiable adherence to family system.
According to analysts and scholars, Yoruba as a distinct ethnicity is a perfect synonym of family value.
Notably, the Yoruba family structure has an exclusively extended outlook unlike what obtains in what is known as nuclear family of a father, mother, and their children.
Put differently, words such as uncle, aunt, cousin, nephew, and niece have no place in their lexicon. What Yoruba culture teaches is father and mother; brother and sister. For instance, both younger and elder brother to ones biological father are referred to as ones father, and so they shall be recognised and be treated.
What this value teaches is oneness and communalism, which strengthen the inherited bond within members of a family.
This equally reflects mostly in the time of celebration and mourning when every member of the family shares the feelings together.
Also, through this family value, other elements such as greetings, dressing, eating mannerism, public appearance, and accommodation to visitors are taught, learnt, and transferred to future generations.
Of course, there are still many family compounds also known as Agbo ile headed by an acceptable man, not necessarily the oldest. He is the equivalent of and indeed the symbol of the town’s traditional ruler in the compound. Each Agbo ile is sub-divided into families under a daodu or mogaji, the latter being the use and practice in ibadanland traditional structure.
However, the invasion by foreign influences and globalisation have reduced remarkably the effectiveness of this age-old system.Members of families are becoming more individualistic due to their exposure to western civilization, including religious beliefs, which promotes nuclear family system and make extended family unattractive on the allegation of witchcraft practice, for instance, back home.
This trend is, to say the least, dangerous to the future of Yoruba identity among other tribes. Reviving the family system in Yoruba land requires a multifaceted approach that blends cultural revival with modern practices.
One of these approaches is the promotion of Yoruba values through community programmes, schools, and media.Elders should be encouraged to share stories, proverbs, and teachings that emphasize respect, unity, and family bonds.
Furthermore, community ties should be strengthened by reintroducing communal activities such as festivals, meetings, and cooperative societies, which foster unity and collective responsibility.
Adaptation of traditional values to fit modern lifestyles, like the yoruba concept of omoluabi should be integrated into contemporary education and parenting practices.
In addition, religious and cultural institutions should be encouraged to promote family unity through teachings, celebrations and enforcement of yoruba family values.
On the part of the younger generation, they should learn and appreciate their heritage through cultural clubs, mentorship programmes, and workshops that emphasize the importance of family and community.
By combining these efforts, the values that once held the Yoruba family system together can be revitalized, ensuring they remain relevant in today’s society.
Tunde Busari is the Publisher of The Tabloid.net.
