As part of efforts to discover and develop untapped tourism potential at the grassroots in Ogun State, traditional rulers and community leaders have been tasked to identify tourism potential in their domains.

The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi, made the call during an interview with news men at the Ekusere Festival at Ilogbo community in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of the state, saying the step would ensure the development and promotion of the tourism sector in the state.

Hon. Fagbayi added that the present administration in the state was committed to promoting, preserving and sustaining the rich cultural heritage of the people, as well as developing sites in communities that have tourism potential.

Speaking also in an interview with journalists, the Onilogbo of Ilogbo of Ilogbo Kingdom, Oba Samuel Ojugbele said the essence of the festival was to bring sons and daughters of the kingdom, as well as non-indigenes together, towards creating peace, unity and cohesiveness.

Oba Olugbele described Ekusere, the river goddess, as a symbol of motherhood that brings peace and protection to the kingdom, recalling that no war invaded the Ilogbo community since its existence about 14th century ago.

He commended the Ministry for identifying with their community, calling on government for the provision of good road network, to reduce the high cost of transportation in the area.

Corroborating, the Apena of Ilogbo Kingdom, Chief Akinola Alabi, revealed that the Ekusere River was not only for sightseeing but it possesses healing powers for infertility, epilepsy and terminal illness, among others.