The Ooni of Ife, Enitan Ogunwusi has brokered peace between veteran actor Kareem Adepoju also known as Baba Wande and Mainframe Productions’ founder, Tunde Kelani, ending a longstanding feud between the two industry giants.

This reconciliation, it was learnt was facilitated through the Aroba Groove, an international artistic organisation led by Ambassador ‘Dotun Taylor.

The Ooni of Ife’s strategic use of Ambassador Taylor and the Aroba Groove to resolve the feud highlighted his commitment to addressing conflicts and promoting national unity.

According to Taylor, “I was chosen by the Ooni of Ife to facilitate the reconciliation between Tunde Kelani and Alhaji Karim Adepoju due to my experience as a cultural ambassador and my passion for promoting Nigerian culture and arts. Growing up, I had a deep appreciation for the film industry, and when I became a culture ambassador, the Ooni of Ife himself praised the significance of the film ‘Ti Oluwa Ni Ile’.

“After moving to Hollywood, I realised the importance of stage acting and decided to bring this concept to Nigeria. Through my company, Aroba (meaning ‘history’ in Yoruba), we aim to showcase the history of Nigerian film and theatre, starting with successful Nollywood films like ‘Ti Oluwa Ni Ile’, which we will adapt for the stage featuring fresh talent, including popular social media influencers who have proven their acting craft.”

He praised the exemplary leadership displayed by Kelani and Baba Wande, citing their willingness to put aside differences as a valuable lesson for the industry and beyond.

“Their actions demonstrate the importance of intergenerational collaboration, ensuring a seamless transfer of knowledge and values between the old guard and the next generation,’ Ambassador Taylor emphasised. ‘By working together, we can avoid misunderstandings and misaligned efforts, ultimately driving progress and development in the entertainment industry.”

This reconciliation move gave birth to the seamless production of ASIYANBI, the stage adaptation of TI OLUWA NILE as produced by Aroba Groove, under the leadership of Ambassador ‘Dotun Taylor, in collaboration with the House of Oduduwa with the endorsement of the Ooni of Ife

In a heartwarming reconciliation, the industry giants expressed gratitude to the Ooni for his intervention and the vital role played by Asoju Asa Oodua.

Baba Wande reminisced about their early days, saying, “Tunde Kelani is my friend, and we will continue to work together for the growth of our beloved industry and Yorubaland.”

Kelani echoed similar sentiments, “This peace initiative is a reminder that our work is appreciated, and we are being watched. I thank the Ooni for his intervention and assure my full support to the production of ASIYANBI, the stage adaptation of TI OLUWA NILE.”

The Aroba Groove is reviving the classic tale through a stage production, promising a thrilling and innovative theatrical experience.

The captivating stage play, ASIYANBI, is set to captivate audiences in major cities in Nigeria, the UK and the USA later in the year.