Kunle Adelabu
The Executive Chairman, Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Omo’ba Hammed Olalekan Aroyewun has said that his administration is committed to the promotion and upliftment of culture and traditions of Igbogbo people.
He said cultural festivals are unifying factors and also bring about development.
Aroyewun who spoke with THE IMPACT at the Day 2 of the Eyibi festival in Igbogbo Kingdom on Monday, where Agemo performed, also urged residents to celebrate without any rancour and maintain peace.
The council chairman, Omo’ba Aroyewun joined His Royal Majesty, Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, traditional chiefs, anf hundreds of residents of Igbogbo that trooped out to celebrate the annual festival, held at the popular Club 24 in Igbogbo.
Omo’ba Aroyewun extolled the virtue in the observance, “We are gathered here today to celebrate our Agemo Festival; a tradition that has been passed down through generations. We give thanks to God and our creator for allowing us to come together in peace and harmony.
“We are grateful to have our King, Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, present here today, along with our esteemed chiefs and members of the Agemo Sect. This festival is not only a celebration of our culture, but also an opportunity to invoke peaceful spirits to dwell in our land, bringing prosperity and progress. We are proud to say that our land has been blessed with prosperity, and we pray that it will continue to flourish.”
The council boss furthered, “As we celebrate, we urge our people to maintain peace and avoid any form of conflict or misunderstanding. We want to create an environment that will attract visitors from far and wide, eager to experience our rich culture.
“Our government is committed to promoting and uplifting our traditions and culture. We believe that cultural festivals like this one have the power to bring people together, foster unity, and drive development.”
While stating that Igbogbo is expecting people from within and outside the country to attend the seven days traditional and cultural event, Omo’ba Aroyewun appealled to both the federal and the state government and individuals to support his administration’s efforts to promote Igbogbo cultural heritage.
“We invite people from all over Nigeria and abroad to come and celebrate with us, to experience the richness of our culture, and to contribute to its growth and development.
“We believe that this will not only promote our culture but also boost our economy, as visitors will patronize our local goods and services.
“We appeal to our state governor, the federal government, and individuals from around the world to support our efforts to develop and promote our tradition and culture.
“Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our cultural heritage continues to thrive for generations to come. Thank you.”
The Eyibi which is a festival related to Remo and Ijebu towns combine Agemo and Eluku festivals together in annual celebration.
