Kunle Adelabu
It was another huge pre – commencement event on Saturday as residents of Ikorodu trooped out in their thousands to take part in the walk -for- fitness in commemorating the 34th edition of the annual Ikorodu Oga Carnival.
The walk led by the Chairman, Ikorodu Oga Development Association (IKODASS), Alhaji Kolawole Fatai Olayiwola, DCIO, took off at the Ikorodu Town Hall, with the Chairman, Ikorodu Local Government, Prince Adedayo Ladega, Chairman, Ikorodu North LCDA, Hon. Ameen Apanisile, and Vice Chairman, Ikorodu LG, Hon. Babawale Alogba. Also in attendance was the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Social Development, Comrade Olalekan Biliamin Oba among other dignitaries.
The massive crowd that took part in the walk for many hours brought the entire community into a standstill, as vehicular movements were halted as participants welcomed another Ikorodu – Oga Carnival with celebration while keeping fit, as they walked across major roads.
Major stakeholders – registered clubs and associations, Regberegbe, market associations, groups from Aga, Ijomu and Isele (the three major quarters in Ikorodu) under the umbrella of Ikorodu Parapo, political groups and youth organisations, among others, took part in the walk
During the walk, the team stormed the Ayangbure Palace to pay homage to His Royal Majesty (Oba) Dr. Kabir Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu who welcomed the massive crowd with his wife, Olori Kudirat Shotobi, and other members of the royal family.
In his royal remarks, Oba Shotobi lauded residents of his kingdom for trooping out massively for the walk, stating that with their support, Ikorodu will continue to set the pace.
The royal father also urged them to give their total commitment and dedication in celebrating this year’s Ikorodu – Oga Carnival.
The IKODASS Chairman, Alhaji Kolawole, In a statement commended the royal family and other stakeholders that made the walk a huge success describing it as a collective effort which depicts unity and oneness in Ikorodu.
“The success of this year’s WALK was a testament to the strong community spirit and dedication to health and wellness that define the Ikorodu Kingdom. The level of participation was truly inspiring and exceeded all expectations.
“Seeing thousands of our people from all walks of life — Youths , Elder men and women come together to embrace fitness was a beautiful sight and a powerful demonstration of UNITY.
“Your individual and collective enthusiasm is a true energy of this exercise,” Alhaji Kolawole said.
He also solicited for more support throughout the 2025 Ikorodu Oga Celebration.
“I want to use this medium to solicit for more collaboration, cooperation, and the spirit of sportsmanship in all our remaining outings .
“Thank you for waking up early and dedicating your Saturday morning to this vital cause.”
The pre – Ikorodu – Oga Carnival events continue on Thursday, November 6th, with a soccer tournament and Friday, November 7th, with Community Day with Lawyers.
The celebration commenced properly on Saturday, November 8th, Inter – Religious Service, Woro procession, Fanty Carnival, and Heritage Performance.
On the same day, the annual market expo/fair that will run through the 7-day celebration will also commence while a new innovation – Royal – White party also comes up on Saturday, November 8th.
