…….SEEKS OGUN GOVT INTERVENTION
The ancient town of Irete-Ijebu is set to come alive once again as its revered monarch, Oba (Dr) Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu prepares to host the second edition of the much-anticipated Owo-Ila Festival.
The cultural celebration, which debuted last year to widespread acclaim, is fast becoming a significant event in the community’s calendar, drawing indigenes, visitors, and culture enthusiasts from far and near.
Speaking ahead of the festival in a Press conference, the monarch expressed enthusiasm about the growth of the event, describing it as a vital platform for preserving the town’s rich heritage and promoting unity among its people
Oba Awokoya Yesufu then called on the Ogun State Government to urgently intervene in key areas of development, particularly in education, security, and infrastructure, as the community intensifies preparations for the Irete Owoila Day.
Speaking on the April 5, 2026 Celebration,the monarch appealed for the establishment of a government primary school in the town and the siting of a security outpost, noting that the growing population—especially students around Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona College of Education and Technology—makes such facilities necessary.
While making the appeal, Oba Awokoya-Yesufu acknowledged ongoing efforts by the Federal Government in opening up rural road networks linking Irete to Epe, Lekki, and the Dangote Refinery corridor, describing the intervention as impactful to economic activities in the area.
He, however, stressed that the Ogun State Government must complement these efforts by addressing critical gaps in grassroots development, particularly in education and security.
Community Mobilises for Owoila Day
The royal father announced that the 2026 Irete Owoila Day will hold at the open field of the College of Education and Technology, calling on indigenes at home and in the diaspora to participate actively.
He described the annual event as a platform for unity, cultural promotion, and community development, promising a more vibrant outing than last year’s maiden edition.
The monarch commended residents, friends, and stakeholders for their support in the previous edition and urged sustained collaboration to further develop the town.
Stakeholders Reinforce Development Demands
Coordinator for the Festival, Otunba Saheed Dosumu, echoed the monarch’s call for government intervention, particularly in the provision of a primary school and improved security presence in the community, while acknowledging existing development strides.
Also speaking, the Iyalode of the land, Chief Mrs. Ogoji Idayat Tope, pledged the full support of women in ensuring the success of the event, highlighting their role in community mobilisation.
The Ayowoneyo Area CDC Chairman and Tayese of Irete-Ijebu, Chief Ayodele Yaya Olayinka, commended the monarch’s leadership, describing him as visionary and committed to transformation.
Similarly, the Head of the Olorituns, Chief Adekoya Adedeji Abdulnasiru, noted that the traditional structure of the community remains strong and organised, assuring that the Olorituns—who serve as key executors of community decisions—are fully prepared to ensure a successful and hitch-free celebration.
Activities, Cultural Display, Free Medical Outreach
Activities lined up for the event include a football tournament, marathon race, cultural displays, and musical performances, with Fuji star Musiliu Ishola expected to headline.
Organisers also disclosed plans for a free medical outreach, with the monarch sponsoring treatment for ailments discovered during the exercise.
Adequate security arrangements have also been put in place to guarantee safety of attendees.
Vision for a Modern Irete
Community leaders expressed optimism about transforming Irete into a model town through collective effort, urging indigenes to remain committed to development initiatives.
They noted that Irete Owoila Day is not just a celebration of cultural heritage but also a rallying point for unity, progress, and sustainable development in the community.
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