Ido-Oko Ijesa, a vibrant community in Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, was agog with excitement as dignitaries from across the country gathered for the grand finale of the week-long Restoration of Grace 2025 program. The event culminated in the historic foundation-laying ceremony of the community’s new palace, marking a significant milestone in the town’s development.
The program, which commenced on Monday, featured a series of impactful activities, including a sanitation and environmental exercise, the decoration of the Baba Loja and Iyaloja, the inauguration of the Market Management Committee, the commissioning of a community borehole project, the inauguration of the Ido-Oko Ijesa Progressive Union (IPU) National Executive Council, the launch of the Ido-Oko Ijesa Anthem Remix, and the installation of distinguished individuals at Saint Phillip’s Anglican Church, Ido-Oko Ijesa.
The foundation-laying ceremony of the Ido-Oko Ijesa Palace attracted esteemed Yoruba monarchs, captains of industry, politicians, and business leaders. Notable dignitaries in attendance included HRM Alayeluwa Oba Dr. Akeem Olusayo King Benjamin Ogungbangbe, the Owaloko of Iloko Ijesa; HRM Oba (Engr.) Moses Oluwafemi Agunsoye, the Elegboro of Ijebu-Ijesa; HRM Oba Michael Oluwaseyi Adeolu Adejola, the Olomo of Omo-Ijesa; and HRM Oba Amos Adewunmi Ogidiolu, the Oniwoye of Iwoye-Ijesa.
Other royal fathers present included HRM Oba Joseph Adebisi Owoeye, the Olodogo of Odogo-Ijesa; HRM Oba Adeyemi Adediran, the Owamiran of Esa-Oke; the Alaa of Ila-Ijesa, who also serves as the President of the Network of Obas; HRM Oba Ajarotade Adewale; HRM Oba Edward Adetimo Olomu of Ijaregbe Land; HRM Oba Ogunniyi Adeseyi John, the Onitegun of Itegun-Ijesa; and HRM Oba Adelowo Samson Akerele III, the Elesun of Eesun-Ijesa Land. The royal delegation was also graced by Olori Kikelomo Bukunmi Ogidiolu, the Oniwoye of Iwoye-Ijesa.
In a separate event, the people of Ido-Oko Ijesa gathered at Saint Phillip’s Anglican Church to celebrate the installation of several distinguished individuals into various leadership positions within the church. The honorees included Pa. Samuel Ayoade Dada as Baba Egbe Ijo, Princess Rachael Monisola Oke as Iya Ijo, Mr. Johnson Omoniyi as Baba Egbe Aya Bishop, Prince Adekusibe Adeyeye as Otun Baba Ijo, Mrs. Mariam Adedeji as Iya Ewe, Mr. Abolaji Babatunde Adekanmi as Baba Ewe, Mrs. Cecilia Emmanuel as Iya Egbe Ajumogbadura, Mrs. Abosede Faderera Olajide as Iya Egbe Akorin, and Mrs. Bunmi Falade as Iya Egbe Ajihinrere.
The installation ceremony was officiated by the Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Rev. S.O. Egbebunmi, following nominations made by the church community. The newly installed leaders expressed their gratitude to the congregation for the honor bestowed upon them, pledging their commitment to serving the church faithfully.
The church event was graced by various religious leaders, including Mrs. E.O. Egbebunmi (Mama Ilesa South West), Venerable M.O. Agunbiade and Mrs. C.B. Agunbiade (Archdeacon), and Rev. Canon Johnson and Mrs. Modupe Agboola (Vicar, Saint Phillip’s Anglican Church, Ido-Oko Ijesa). They played a key role in welcoming the invited religious leaders and ensuring the success of the program.
Speaking at the event, the National President of the Ido-Oko Ijesa Progressive Union (IPU), Prince Ademola Adeyeye, extended his appreciation to all dignitaries and guests, including the Ijesa North Council of Obas, religious leaders, captains of industry, politicians, and business moguls, for their presence and support at the foundation-laying ceremony and the church installation event.
Oba Babatunde Adedeji, in his goodwill message, lauded the sons and daughters of Ido-Oko Ijesa for their unwavering commitment to the development of their community. He also commended the Restoration of Grace 2025 committee, the Ido-Oko Ijesa Progressive Union (IPU), and all well-wishers who contributed to the success of the program.
The grand finale of the Restoration of Grace 2025 program was a resounding success, reinforcing the unity and progress of Ido-Oko Ijesa. The community looks forward to continued development and further collaborative efforts to uplift its people and heritage.
The success of the program was a testament to the dedication and commitment of the Ido-Oko Ijesa Progressive Union (IPU), which continues to play a pivotal role in the advancement of the community.
Community leaders and stakeholders expressed optimism that the newly laid foundation for the palace would serve as a beacon of cultural heritage and administrative excellence for generations to come.
Residents of Ido-Oko Ijesa, both home and abroad, celebrated the milestone, emphasizing the importance of unity in fostering sustainable development.
The Restoration of Grace 2025 program also provided a platform for discussions on future projects aimed at improving infrastructure, education, and social welfare within the community.
Traditional rulers present at the event commended the leadership of the town for their proactive steps in preserving and advancing the cultural legacy of Ido-Oko Ijesa.
The newly installed church leaders pledged to work in harmony with the congregation, fostering spiritual growth and strengthening the faith community in Ido-Oko Ijesa.
With the successful completion of the program, the community now sets its sights on implementing more initiatives that will drive progress and inclusivity among its people.
As the event drew to a close, attendees expressed their joy and satisfaction, underscoring the significance of collaboration in achieving meaningful development.
The people of Ido-Oko Ijesa remain committed to their shared vision of prosperity, cultural preservation, and continuous advancement for the betterment of their land and future generations.
