The Baba Ara Music Band Old Members and Ara Fans Club have announced a series of events to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the late gospel music legend, Roland Olubukola Olomola, popularly known as Baba Ara.
In a press conference held on Thursday, July 18, 2024, in Ibadan, Oyo State, organizers detailed the anniversary program and unveiled the official jingle, promotional materials, and commemorative merchandise, including T-shirts and face caps.
Addressing the press, Dr. Oyemomi Ezekiel, National President of Ara Fans Club, emphasized the significance of the celebrations. “Baba Ara was not just a musician; he was a prophetic voice whose music transcended borders and touched countless lives,” Dr. Oyemomi stated.
He continued, “Roland Olubukola Olomola, popularly known as Baba Ara, was born on July 2, 1962, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, to the family of David Oladipupo Olomola and Mama Folakemi Olomola of Ilesha, Osun State. He began his primary education at Ago Oko Methodist Primary School and later attended Baptist Boys’ High School in Abeokuta. He furthered his studies at Ogun State Polytechnic (now Moshood Abiola Polytechnic), where he graduated with a Higher National Diploma in Food Science and Technology in 1988.
“Baba Ara’s musical journey began in the Methodist Church, where he served as an assistant choirmaster before joining the Celestial Church of Christ, Okiki Imole Parish in Sagamu. His unique style and powerful messages quickly gained him recognition, leading to the release of numerous influential albums.”
“He was married to Mrs. Idowu Olomola, who converted to Christianity from Islam after their marriage. Together, they had children and shared a deep love for each other.”
Dr. Ezekiel announced the upcoming remembrance events as follows:
Service of Remembrance: August 31, 2024, 11:00 AM, Celestial Church of Christ Okiki Imole Parish, Sagamu, Ogun State
Posthumous Musical Concert and Launching of ARA Foundation: August 31, 2024, 2:00 PM, Vogue Event Center, opposite railway police headquarters, behind FMC railway compound, Ebute-Metta, Lagos
Also speaking at the press conference, Mrs. Idowu Olomola, Baba Ara’s widow, expressed her gratitude.
“I am happy to witness the 20-year remembrance of my husband. I appreciate the Ara Fans Club and the old band members for organizing this. He was a truthful person, and if I come back in the next world, I would marry him again.”
She debunked rumors surrounding Baba Ara’s death, stating, “My husband never took hard drugs. He was sick and was taken to the hospital but couldn’t survive. He lived peacefully and died without stress.”
She also lamented the cessation of royalties from his music, noting, “The royalties stopped 10 years ago, and nobody has looked at my side. The government has done nothing about it.”
Baba Ara’s brother, Olatunde Olomola, expressed his appreciation for the remembrance efforts. “Baba Ara’s music was not just entertainment; it was a ministry. His legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
The oldest band member, Mr. Hassan Bankole, shared his memories of Baba Ara. “Baba Ara was more than a band leader; he was a mentor and a guide. His dedication to his craft and his faith was unparalleled.”
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including H/R/E OluwaSeyi Olusanya of CCC Sagamu 1 Ajegunle and Cape Elder Sister Folarin Tolani, representing Rev. Prophet Gabriel Evans of CCC City of David Parish, Onireke Jericho.
