Oduduwa

Josy Ajiboye is a Nigerian painter, illustrator, and cartoonist known for his realist depictions of political, social, and cultural issues. Ajiboye was a prolific cartoonist for the Daily Times and played a significant role in popularizing the art form in Nigeria. He is also recognized for his paintings that often address themes of Nigerian heritage.

In this painting, Ajiboye reimagines Oduduwa, the legendary founder of the Ife empire and a Yoruba deity. Oduduwa is adorned with beads and wears a beaded crown. In one hand, he holds a trunk, while his other hand appears as a stub. The background, showing a distant horizon, and the brick surface on which the statue stands add to the reverence of this figure.