OMO OWÓ BY BÁYÒ ÒDÒDÓ: A CELEBRATION OF CHILDHOOD UNIQUENESS
Prof and his brother Táyò, along with Mimi, our neighbor’s daughter, had just returned from church where they attended a preparatory class for this year’s Children’s Day celebration.
“Daddy! Daddy!” Mimi and Prof chorused joyfully as they rushed in, bubbling with excitement. “They just taught us a new song!” I watched eagerly as they fumbled for the right words of the chorus. Suddenly, their voices rang out:
“Òdòdó niwá lówó yín,
Aó d’irú, aó d’igba ò láyé n’bí.
Omo owó niwá lówó yín o,
Aó d’irú, aó d’igba o, àmín àse.”
In an instant, the sweet melody filled the room. I didn’t need a scanner to see how their hearts leapt with joy. As they clapped and danced, their faces radiated genuine happiness. I was soon swept up in the rhythm—even though I didn’t fully grasp the lyrics, I found myself nodding along and singing with them.
A few days later, the song went viral. Social media was flooded with videos of children singing and dancing to its beautiful tune. One of the most touching clips I saw was from the Children’s Day celebration hosted by the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke. He was surrounded by children singing and dancing around him with pure joy.
Without a doubt, Omo Owó, the new song by Báyò Òdòdó, has become one of the hottest tracks in Nigeria, setting the internet ablaze with its soulful message and infectious rhythm.
The significance of the lyrics cannot be overstated, it reminds us—parents, elders, guardians and leaders—of the priceless value of our children. It describes them as fragrant ornaments, richly adorned; precious assets filled with promise and excellence.
Báyò Òdòdó portrays children as blossoming treasures and the undeniable hope for future greatness. The future of our homes, families, businesses, societies—and indeed, our nation—rests on their shoulders. No matter the challenges we face, we must never give up on our children. Our commitment to raising them must surpass any shortcomings they may exhibit.
Every parent, guardian, and leader has a responsibility to instill the right values—those defined by our culture and moral compass. We must raise children who embody good character and carry themselves with dignity. They should be proud of our rich heritage and surrounded by love.
Finally, let us refrain from hasty judgments based on a child’s mistakes. Their errors should not define them. Parenting is about correcting in love, guiding with patience, and doing our utmost to help them reach their highest potential. They have promised to make us proud—let us do our part to make that promise a reality.
In summary, Báyò Òdòdó has reignited the conscience of parents and guardians, reminding us of our sacred duty. He has reaffirmed that children are a unique gift—one that must be nurtured with care and guided with purpose to ensure a brighter tomorrow.
This is a commendable piece of work from the artist and deserves recognition and applause from all.
Sam Akinwale is a
Social Commentator & Author
Write from Ondo City, Ondo State_