SHOWUNMI INSTALLED AS ODOFIN OF KEESI, VOWS GRASSROOTS DEVELOPMENT PUSH

The Convener of the Alternative Movement, Segun Showunmi, has been installed as the Odofin of Keesi in Abeokuta, in a ceremony that drew traditional rulers, community leaders and well-wishers from across Ogun State.

The installation, held in Keesi township within Egbaland, marks Showunmi’s elevation to the position of Odofin — the second-ranking authority in the traditional leadership structure of Keesi land.

Performing the installation rites, the Apena Keesi and Baagbimo of Egbaland, Chief Akanni Israel, explained that the Odofin title is a township chieftaincy reserved for the Akinroku family, from which Showunmi hails. He noted that the new Odofin was selected in recognition of his contributions to community growth, socio-economic development and leadership within Keesi and the wider Ogun State.

Chief Israel said the conferment reflects the community’s confidence in Showunmi’s commitment to service and development, adding that the title carries both honour and responsibility.

“The position of Odofin is not merely ceremonial,” he said. “It is bestowed on individuals who have demonstrated dedication to the progress of Keesi and who can help mobilise resources and people toward sustainable development.”

Speaking with journalists shortly after the ceremony, Showunmi expressed gratitude to the elders and traditional rulers of Keesi and Egbaland for the recognition. He described the title as a call to deeper service at the grassroots level.

According to him, the honour presents an opportunity to demonstrate how local transformation can inspire broader state and national progress.

“If you are asked to transform a state and you are given an opportunity to start in your area, why not use the transformation of your area to give an idea of what it means to truly transform a state and the country,” he said. 

Showunmi highlighted Keesi’s historical role in education and community development in Egbaland, noting that the township was among the first to establish key social infrastructure in the region.

“We know who we are in Keesi,” he said. “We were among the first to have a grammar school, a clinic and a town hall in Egbaland. By the grace of God, we will continue to add our own contributions. We will bring more to the table and engage all sons and daughters of Keesi in the development of the township.”

Community leaders present at the event described the installation as a significant moment for Keesi, expressing optimism that Showunmi’s new role would strengthen unity and accelerate development initiatives within the township.

The ceremony concluded with traditional rites, cultural displays and goodwill messages from dignitaries who urged the new Odofin to use his position to foster progress, inclusiveness and community-driven growth across Keesi and beyond.