As global society continues to evolve through rapid technological advancement, Web3 experts, artists, and change-driven enthusiasts have examined post-capitalist ideals and explored opportunities within the blockchain ecosystem, particularly through non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and their regulation.
The event, tagged ‘Ileya’ and organised by Ola and Co. Inc., was held in Lagos on Saturday with the theme “Post-Capitalist Desire.”
The convener, Web3 developer and business transformation expert, Mr. Obafemi Odejayi, explained that the concept of ‘Ileya’ is rooted in its name, which signifies a call to bring home ideas acquired from the diaspora and literature, and translate them into practical and attainable realities.
“We are bringing back tangible physical art pieces from the diaspora, as well as NFT digital art works from artists abroad and within Lagos,” he said.
Odejayi noted that the theme reflects concerns about the pervasive nature of capitalism across the globe, adding that the event was designed to explore how Web3 tools can be deployed for community building.
He said this year’s ‘Ileya’ focused on NFT auctions, art exhibitions, and panel sessions aimed at stimulating thought and inspiring action.
Highlighting the broader potential of the Web3 space, Odejayi said the technology could be applied beyond finance to support community and social initiatives such as voting, community sanitation, skill development, management of community centres, and other activities without the need for intermediaries.
“My target audience, ” he stressed, “is not super defined but for people who want a change and are looking to rediscover the concept of Demos in democracy. In this system, they can’t change the post when the term is over. The NFT auction that started that day continues until the end of the year at gallery.olaco.xyz.
“Individuals have too little power in the state now, but with web3 tech, everyone is responsible for coming together and driving meaningful change. The blockchain is transparent and reveals those who participate in its networks or otherwise,” the Convener added.
However, Submissions from an Artist, Chinedu Offor, expounded on the need to prioritize Education, stating that when people become dissatisfied and frustrated, they often lash out through various evil vices. However, with education, they get the right knowledge and build strong associations to brainstorm and pave the way forward.
“Capitalist desire is to answer the question before us as a generation to build the world we want to live in, identify the questions before us, and our role in shaping the future. Web3 can also be a tool for freedom from slavery. Education is a day-to-day pursuit of curiosity to follow your passion.” Mrs Omolara explained.
She added that if people do not eat, they will be unable to think of freedom or success; hence, poverty is used as a tool by the capitalist to deprive the masses of the right education that enlightens them on how to gain financial independence.
‘Ileya’ 2025, with many exhibitors featured, Artist Ayomide Grey, an exhibitor who cited the relevance of the views of artists to the social and economic vices in society. As related to the theme of post-capitalism, he disclosed that his pieces on display were focused on economic challenges, personal identity, and cross-cultural adaptation. “It’s our job to reflect the society and make it obvious out there,” he stated.
Furthermore, a participant, CEO, Folahan Fabrics, Dame Yetunde Odejayi, examined the significance of the event for mental liberation. She envisioned the program as an empowerment for the minds of the people to think and rethink why everyone should own up to themselves.
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