The Onirete of Irete-Ijebu, Oba AbdulGaniu Awokoya-Yesufu, has declared that the maiden edition of the Irete Owo-Ila Day has come to stay, emphasizing that the festival will serve as a platform to showcase the progress and cultural heritage of Irete-Ijebu.

The monarch made this known during the grand finale of the Irete Owo-Ila Day celebration, held recently in Irete-Ijebu.

Oba Awokoya-Yesufu expressed pride in the institutionalization of the festival, describing it as a defining event for the community.

“This celebration is not only a reflection of our culture, heritage, and unity, but it also serves as an opportunity to showcase our progress, celebrate our successes, and inspire future generations,” he stated.

He further urged residents to promote the festival beyond the borders of Irete and work towards putting it on the global map.

Highlighting his developmental strides since ascending the throne, the monarch noted achievements including the installation of solar-powered streetlights across the town, completion of the first phase of the town market, commencement of the second phase, empowerment of local traders, and road grading initiatives.

Oba Awokoya-Yesufu also acknowledged the support of Governor Dapo Abiodun and appealed for the establishment of a primary school in the town.

Also speaking at the event, the Minority Leader and member representing Odogbolu State Constituency, Hon. Lukman Adeleye, lauded the initiative as a unifying force for the sons and daughters of Irete-Ijebu.

“I congratulate Kabiyesi and all indigenes on the successful maiden edition of the Irete Owo-Ila Day. This event is rich in cultural heritage and I urge everyone to continue supporting the Kabiyesi, who has the town’s best interest at heart,” he said.

Earlier, Otunba Dosumu Saheed, Chairman of the Anowoneyo Area Community Development Committee and the Irete Owo-Ila Day Planning Committee, emphasized that the festival not only honors the town’s cultural heritage but also seeks to revive communal bonds and mobilize collective efforts toward the town’s development and progress.