The organisers of the LABAF had prepared a truly meaningful gift: after each icon’s memory was honoured through the reading, some of the deceased’s loved ones were presented with a portrait of the deceased as a commemorative gift. This gesture brought the event to a powerful, emotional close, ensuring the Grand Finale was not just a celebration of the arts but a sincere act of remembrance and gratitude for the icons whose works continue to inspire
THE Grand Finale Event of the Lagos Book & Art Festival (LABAF) concluded on a deeply moving and artistic note, centred on honouring the legacies of lost cultural icons. The evening was a beautiful tapestry of spoken word, poetry, and music, serving as a heartfelt tribute to those who had shaped the literary and artistic landscape.
The final segment of the program began with powerful performances that set a reflective tone. Grace Oni delivered a captivating Spoken Word performance, using rhythm and passion to explore themes of memory and lasting influence. Following this, the stage welcomed two poignant poetic presentations: Sarah Adeyemo and Kehinde Ayeni both shared stirring Poem readings, adding layers of emotional depth to the tributes. The atmosphere then shifted slightly with musical interludes from Lekan, Tanitoluwa and his band members, whose musical performances provided a soulful soundscape to the evening.
The climax of the finale was the official reading of Tributes to the lost icons, a solemn moment handled with grace and respect. A select group of readers was tasked with presenting personalised eulogies and reflections on the lives of these departed figures. The reading roster and the icons they paid tribute to were as follows: Nathaniel honoured the memory of Evelyn Osagie; Eniola read a tribute for Oreoluwa Shonibare; Ebuka paid homage to the esteemed Mabel Segun; Oromide honoured Raymond Bola; Grace delivered a tribute to Olu Ajayi; and finally, Lateef presented a tribute for Deji Rhodes.
Adding an immensely personal and touching dimension to the ceremony, a special presentation followed each tribute reading. The organisers of the LABAF had prepared a truly meaningful gift: after each icon’s memory was honoured through the reading, some of the deceased’s loved ones were presented with a portrait of the deceased as a commemorative gift. This gesture brought the event to a powerful, emotional close, ensuring the Grand Finale was not just a celebration of the arts but a sincere act of remembrance and gratitude for the icons whose works continue to inspire.
- LABAF Media team