A moving stage production of The Okeho Exodus, written by playwright and cultural advocate Olutayo Irantiola, drew a full crowd at Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete. The play was brought to life by students from the Performing Arts department inside the university’s Ultra-Modern Theatre, where they received loud applause for their passionate performance.
Set in a time of revolt, leadership trials, and historical migration, the play explored deep themes such as unity, gender roles, courage, and the value of communication. The storyline, rooted in the rich heritage of the Oke-Ogun region, offered the audience both cultural education and emotional connection. For many, it was more than just theatre—it was a tribute to untold stories from Nigerian history.
Project supervisor Professor Abdulrasheed A. Adeoye said the performance highlighted a strong message about collective strength and peaceful solutions. He described the play as a reminder that Nigeria’s challenges can be solved through unity and patriotism without violence.
Olutayo Irantiola, the playwright, expressed deep pride in how the students embraced the story. He said their delivery was “electrifying, intelligent, and moving,” and commended them for bringing history to life in a way that speaks to today’s generation. He praised their work as “beyond expectations” and wished them success in their creative journeys.
Among those in attendance were top academics, including Professor Emeritus Musibau Akanji, former Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, and Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin. Other notable guests included Dr. Michael Agboola, Head of Department for Performing Arts and Film Studies at KWASU; Dr. Joe Odedina; Mrs. Temitope Adedokun; Dr. Musiliyu Sanni; Mr. Basiru Adebisi; Mr. Tosin Ibitoye; Mr. Gbenga Adumati; and Mr. Ganiyu Kolawole.
The success of the KWASU staging has sparked wider interest in The Okeho Exodus. A performance by students from Lagos State University’s Theatre Arts Department is scheduled for July 17, 2025, if there are no changes to the plan.
