The Iloko Ijesa community in the Oriade local government area of Osun State came alive yesterday as thousands of residents and dignitaries gathered to celebrate their annual Iloko Day.
Marking a significant moment in the town’s calendar, sons and daughters of Iloko Ijesa convened at the upgraded Iloko Ijesa Township Hall on Iijebu Road, under the auspices of the Iloko Development Association (IDA), to commemorate the occasion and discuss strategies for advancing the town’s development, according to a report by Nationnewslead.
Led by Mr. Kayode Adedire, the organizing committee orchestrated months of meticulous planning to ensure the success of the event. The main hall buzzed with activity as various social associations, adorned in vibrant Ankara fabrics, filled the space, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Amidst live performances by local highlife artist Ariyo Awodugba, attendees reveled in the camaraderie, showcasing unity and solidarity through dance and celebration.
Distinguished guests, including political office holders and traditional leaders such as the Owaloko of Iloko Ijesa, Alayeluwa Oba Dr. Akeem Olusayo Benjamin Ogungbangbe, Olobu Of Ilobu, Alayeluwa Oba Ashiru Olatoye Olaniyan, Alapomu of Apomu, Oba Kayode Adenekan Afolabi, Alara Of Ara, Oba Dr. Adesola Adebayo Windapo, Elegboro of Ijebu Ijesa, Oba Engr. Olufemi Moses Agunsoye, Olomo of Omoo Ijesa, Oba Oluwaseyi Adeolu Adel, Oniwoye of Iwoye Ijesa, Oba Amos Adewunmi Ogidiolu, Adooko of Ido Oko, Oba Michael Babatunde Adedeji, Olodogo of Odogo, Oba Joseph Adebisi Owoeye, Olori Olobu of Ilobu, Olori Bola Olaniyan, Olori Elegboro of Ijebu Ijesa, Olori Omolara Agunsoye, Olori Oniwoye of Iwoye Ijesa, Olori Kikelomo Ogidiolu graced the occasion, underscoring the importance of community cohesion and collaboration.
In his impassioned address, Oba Ogungbangbe lauded the transformative efforts of Osun State Governor, Sen. Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke, in elevating the region’s socio-economic profile. He emphasized the importance of communal solidarity in driving collective aspirations towards a prosperous future, urging reconciliation among generations for the betterment of Iloko Ijesa.
Echoing the theme of “Unity, a Catalyst for Peace and Development,” Kayode Adedire, Chairman of IDA, emphasized the pivotal role of cohesion in fostering progress within the community. He unveiled plans for a N250 million Development Fund aimed at modernizing the Town Hall into a civic center, calling for generous contributions from stakeholders towards this endeavor.
Amidst reflections on IDA’s achievements, Adedire reiterated the organization’s commitment to transparent governance and inclusive representation. He appealed for support towards the realization of communal projects, including infrastructure upgrades and youth empowerment initiatives
Hon. Prince Bayo Ogungbangbe, Commissioner for Cooperative and Empowerment, commended IDA’s efforts in showcasing Iloko Ijesa’s cultural heritage and urged sustained collaboration for future endeavors.
Princess Kemi Oshodi, speaking on behalf of the Ajagbusi Ekun ruling house, emphasized the importance of unity in propelling the town to greater heights, echoing sentiments of collective responsibility and engagement.
As the celebrations drew to a close, IDA Secretary Mr. Taiwo Omojola reflected on the success of the event, lauding the peaceful atmosphere and collaborative spirit demonstrated by all participants. He underscored the event’s role in advancing the town’s developmental goals and reiterated IDA’s commitment to future endeavors.
The 2024 Iloko Day celebrations concluded on a note of unity, optimism, and determination, reaffirming the community’s resolve to chart a path towards sustainable progress and prosperity.
