“Tolerance (Eleta Aghara)” by Chief Dr. Oliver De Coque is a classic Igbo highlife song that emphasizes the importance of patience and understanding in relationships. With lyrics that highlight the essence of forgiveness and acceptance, the song’s message is straightforward: “Tolerance is the backbone of any successful relationship.” Through this piece, Oliver De Coque encourages people to forgive others and overlook their faults, as he sings, “Eleta aghara ya bu uto, Onye emehiene ibe ya,” which translates to the idea of looking past others’ wrongdoings for the sake of unity and love.

Oliver De Coque, whose real name was Chief Dr. Oliver Sunday Akanite, was born in 1947 in Ezinifite, Anambra State, Nigeria. He is widely celebrated as one of Africa’s greatest highlife musicians, renowned for his skillful fusion of traditional Igbo highlife sounds (such as the Ogene rhythm) with modern highlife music. He started his musical journey at the age of 17 and quickly rose to fame with his band, the Ogene Super Sound of Africa. Over his career, he released more than 70 albums, making him one of the most prolific Nigerian musicians. Songs like “Peoples Club Of Nigeria,” “Opportunity,” and “Tolerance (Eleta Aghara)” remain some of his most recognized works.

Oliver De Coque’s influence extends beyond just his music. He played a significant role in popularizing the African highlife genre and the cultural elements of the Igbo people across Nigeria and beyond. He passed away on June 20, 2008, due to a sudden cardiac arrest, but his legacy continues through his music and his children, who have carried on his musical tradition.

“Tolerance (Eleta Aghara)” remains an evergreen hit preaching Oliver De Coque’s belief in harmony and unity, values he consistently promoted through his life and art. His music not only entertained but also provided life lessons that are worth learning!