By Staff Reporter
As preparations reach a crescendo for the landmark 10th edition of the Ode Oba Itori Festival, the Executive Chairman of Ewekoro Local Government, Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa, has paid glowing tribute to the Olu of Itori, Oba (Dr.) Abdul-Fatai Akorede Akamo, for his enduring contributions to cultural preservation, community development, and traditional leadership.
In a statement issued through the Director of Information and Public Relations of Ewekoro Local Government, Mr. Olopade Sakiru, the Chairman congratulated the revered monarch and the people of Itori Kingdom ahead of the grand celebration scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026.
Describing Ode Oba Itori as one of the most significant cultural festivals in Ogun State, Hon. Adesina noted that the annual event remains a powerful expression of Yoruba heritage and a symbol of unity among the sons and daughters of Itori both at home and in the diaspora.
According to him, the festival has evolved beyond a cultural gathering to become an important platform for strengthening communal bonds, preserving ancestral traditions, and promoting socio-economic development within the kingdom.
“The Ode Oba Itori Festival represents the rich history, customs, and values of our people. It is a celebration that reinforces our collective identity while inspiring future generations to embrace and uphold our cultural heritage,” the Chairman stated.
Hon. Adesina particularly commended Oba Akamo for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the advancement of Itori land. He observed that the monarch's reign has witnessed remarkable progress in critical sectors, including infrastructure development, education, healthcare delivery, youth empowerment, and community welfare.
He noted that under the royal leadership of Oba Akamo, Itori has continued to experience steady growth while maintaining a strong connection to its cultural roots.
The Chairman praised the monarch's dedication to safeguarding traditional institutions and ensuring that the customs, festivals, and values that define the identity of the people remain relevant in an increasingly modern society.
“Oba (Dr.) Abdul-Fatai Akorede Akamo has masterfully blended tradition with modernity. His efforts have ensured that our rich cultural heritage is preserved while creating opportunities for development and progress. His reign continues to serve as a shining example of purposeful traditional leadership,” he said.
The 2026 edition of the festival is expected to attract an impressive array of dignitaries, traditional rulers, government officials, cultural enthusiasts, and indigenes from various parts of Nigeria and beyond.
Activities lined up for the celebration include colourful cultural parades, traditional dance performances, masquerade displays, indigenous music presentations, and age-old rituals that reflect the spiritual and historical significance of the ancient Itori Kingdom.
Hon. Adesina further highlighted the economic and tourism benefits associated with the festival, noting that cultural events of such magnitude provide opportunities for local businesses, artisans, traders, and hospitality operators while projecting the cultural richness of Ewekoro Local Government to a wider audience.
He emphasized that royal initiatives championed by the Olu of Itori have significantly contributed to strengthening the cultural fabric of Ogun State and promoting community pride among residents.
The Council Chairman therefore called on all indigenes of Itori, friends of the kingdom, and well-wishers to participate actively in the historic celebration and use the occasion to reaffirm their commitment to the growth and prosperity of the community.
“As we celebrate this milestone 10th edition of Ode Oba Itori, I urge all stakeholders to continue supporting initiatives that promote unity, cultural preservation, and sustainable development. Together, we can build on the achievements recorded so far and create a brighter future for generations to come,” he said.
Expressing confidence in the success of the forthcoming event, Hon. Adesina described the 2026 festival as one that promises to be the most memorable in the history of the celebration, owing to the dedication, wisdom, and leadership of the monarch.
He concluded by praying for the continued good health, wisdom, and peaceful reign of Oba Akamo, while reaffirming his administration's unwavering support for traditional institutions, which he described as indispensable partners in grassroots development and custodians of Yoruba cultural heritage.
The 10th Ode Oba Itori Festival is expected to further cement the kingdom's status as a centre of cultural excellence and a beacon of community-driven development in Ogun State.
