Kunle Adelabu & Mariam Akinloye
-As Rep. Benson leads iCare Fanti
It was awesome experience on Saturday when Ikorodu – Oga Development Association (IKODASS) staged the first Ikorodu -Oga Fanti Carnival, with the aim of uniting the entire kingdom towards cooperation and development and that was exactly what was achieved with thousands of residents trooping out from different corners and quarters storming streets and major roads from different directions.
The results were a total shutdown of vehicle and human movements and sea of heads filled every road in and out of Ikorodu Citycentre with Ikorodu residents – both old and young, man and woman, in their colourful regalia, horses, trucks and carts giving a spectacular and unforgettable maiden Fanti Carnival.
The maiden edition was themed, “Ikorodu Parapo Fanti”.
The three main Fanti teams which represent the three main quarters that form Ikorodu Kingdom – Aga, Ijomu and Isele moved from their quarters to embark on parade through the length and breadth of Ikorodu and during their procession, stopped over at the Ayangbure Palace to pay homage to His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr) Engr. Kabir Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu who was the chief host.
Aside from the three main Fanti groups, there were other sub – Fanti groups that also added colours to the carnival and a key one among them is the iCare Fanti Group led by the representative of Ikorodu Federal Constituency, Rep. Babajimi Benson.
During the celebration, Ikorodu streets came alive with music, dance and funfair
iCare Fanti which kicked -off its procession from the constituency office of the representative stormed Solebo Estate neighbourhood to hit Gbasemo/Aga Road where the team waded through the large number of Aga residents that already covered the long road from Olomoje Mosque to Aga Junction/Ireshe Road with hundreds of them also converging inside streets like Pashokun, Adeniji, Kutere, among others.
Rep. Benson, accompanied by Hon. Adedayo Ladega, Chairman, Ikorodu Local Government and Hon. Ameen Apanisile, Chairman, Ikorodu North LCDA and other dignitaries passing through Aga paid homage to Baale of Aga and his team who were in green and white regalia with hat.
While Alhaji Jamiu Odutayo Inabiri led the Aga Fanti as its chairman, with Mrs Felicia Aladejobi as the chairperson and Prince Abdulfatai Olalekan Akanni as secretary; Mr Akin Ayanilowo, Mrs Olaide Fadahunsi and Mr Shakiru Ogidi led the Ijomu Fanti while Mr Sulaimon Sanda, Mrs Adijat Ayeni and Mr Ganiu Ogunbanwo, coordinated the Isele team.
Alhaji Fatai Kolawole Olayiwola, appreciating the large turnout of residents in their colourful regalia, described it as a community uniting for a purpose.
“It is with a heart full of joy, pride, and rhythm that I welcome you all to the spectacular beginning of the Ikorodu Oga Festival, especially the legendary maiden edition of the Fanti Carnival!
“For weeks, our streets have been buzzing, and our neighbourhoods (Aga, Ijomu, & Isele) have been actively engaged in various preparations for this moment. This carnival is not just a parade; it is a living testament to the spirit of every ‘Omo Oga’ (Child of Ikorodu).”
He said that Ikorodu preserves its history and heritage through the annual celebration and also uses it as its source of development.
“The Ikorodu Oga Festival is rooted in the history of our great city, dating back to its founder, Oga. It serves as a reminder of our enduring commercial strength and cultural legacy as a vital trading hub in Lagos State.
“We are here to celebrate our past, energize our present, and invest in a glorious future. Enjoy every moment of the Fanti Carnival and the entire Ikorodu Oga Festival Week!”
He assured residents that the Ikorodu Parapo Fanti has come to stay as part of the activities celebrating the annual Ikorodu – Oga Celebration
“Moving forward, the carnival will now be known as the “IKORODU OGA CARNIVAL.”
The initiator of the Ikorodu Parapo Fanti who also served as the IKODASS Coordinator for the carnival, Comrade Olalekan Pelumi, also speaking said that the initiative is to promote the rich cultural heritage, promote unity and empower the youth.
“This programme is a testament to our collective effort to honour our heritage, prioritise unity, and drive progress. I’d like to thank our partners, sponsors, and the IKODASS leadership for making this possible.
“Let’s celebrate our heritage, empower our community and shape a brighter future for Ikorodu. The Fanti programme is a cultural event that aims to promote the Fanti heritage and culture into the three major wards in Ikorodu – Aga, Ijomu and Isele, to bring about inclusive participation in the annual Ikorodu – Oga Festival.
“This approach will increase engagement and encourage more community members to get involved,” he said.
