The colourful ancient town of Ila-Orangun came alive in grand style yesterday as eminent personalities, traditional rulers, political leaders, cultural enthusiasts and distinguished sons and daughters of the community gathered at Ojugbara Market Square for the 17th edition of the Ojude Oba Ila-Orangun celebration — a yearly cultural fiesta organised by the Ila-Orangun Big Brothers.
This year’s edition was more than a festival; it was a remarkable display of unity, culture, peace and communal harmony that drew participants from home and the diaspora in what many described as one of the most memorable gatherings in the history of the ancient town.
The atmosphere around the historic venue radiated excitement as different age groups, social associations and cultural groups appeared in colourful traditional attire, showcasing the rich heritage and enduring traditions of the people of Ila-Orangun. The event united people across political, religious and social divides in a rare atmosphere of brotherhood and mutual respect.
Among the dignitaries who graced the occasion were the Executive Governor of Osun State, Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke, represented by Rev. Dr Bunmi Jenyo; the paramount ruler of the ancient town, Oba Wahab Oyedotun and Olori Idayat Oyedotun; Oba Alapeju of Ilupeju and his Olori; Oba Oloja of Oja; legal luminary Barrister Dr Dotun Oyeniyi; and the ADC Deputy Governorship candidate in the forthcoming August 15 election, Hon. Mrs Yemisi Agiri.
The event also attracted notable personalities including Ambassador Mrs. Temi Eboda popularly known as Temi Foods UK, Ms. Fatima Adunni Elemede, Alhaji S.A. Kareem, Prince Ayo Oyinlola, Mr. A. Alesinloye, Mrs. Kemi Awotunde, Pastor Dele Tomori who served as the master of ceremony, members of Ila-Orangun Parapo, Ila Ni Mi, Egbe Iyalode, Egbe Iyaloja, Egbe Aranso, Egbe Atarase, Egbe Eléso, the team of Orisun Igbomina FM, the crew of Igbomina Today Magazine, as well as Islamic and Christian religious leaders led by the Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr. Salahudeen
The guest lecturer, Dr Rabiu Olayinka Iyanda, delivered a thought-provoking lecture centred on peaceful coexistence and unity in diversity. Addressing the mammoth crowd, he cautioned against the misuse of religion and political affiliations as instruments of division, hatred and violence.
According to him, communities can only experience sustainable growth when citizens embrace peace, tolerance and collective responsibility irrespective of political or religious differences.
Representing Governor Adeleke, Rev. Dr Bunmi Jenyo commended the organisers for sustaining a cultural initiative that promotes unity and preserves Yoruba heritage. He highlighted several people-oriented projects executed by the Adeleke administration in Ila-Orangun and assured residents that beginning from next year, the Ojude Oba celebration would enjoy full sponsorship by the state government through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
The announcement generated loud applause from the enthusiastic crowd. Rev. Jenyo further demonstrated the government’s support for the cultural celebration by making a handsome donation toward the success of the event.
The chairman of the occasion, Engineer Dr Ezekiel Olajide Adeniji, was represented by Mr Oluwole Owolabi alongside other prominent members of Ila-Orangun Parapo. Erelu Hon. (Dr.) Funmilayo Akande Mohammed was represented by Chief Jagun Omoowa of Ila-Orangun, Prince Olusegun Makanjuola.
One of the memorable highlights of the gathering was a mild political drama that drew admiration from attendees. The representative of Ila State Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Education at the Osun State House of Assembly, Hon Sikiru Akinloye Bajepade, warmly embraced his cousin, Alhaji Rasheed Adeniji, despite belonging to different political parties.
The symbolic gesture attracted cheers from the audience as both men reassured the community that the forthcoming governorship election in the state would be peaceful, free and devoid of violence. Observers described the moment as a powerful lesson in political maturity and communal unity.
Throughout the celebration, cultural troupes, traditional dancers and social groups entertained guests with thrilling performances that reflected the rich cultural identity of the Yoruba people. The colourful processions, rhythmic drumbeats and energetic dance displays added glamour to the already vibrant occasion.
For many participants, the 17th Ojude Oba Ila-Orangun was not merely a cultural event but a reaffirmation of the enduring values of peace, unity, tolerance and communal development that have continued to define the people of Ila-Orangun over the years.
As the curtains gradually fell on the historic celebration, one message echoed loudly across the ancient town — that despite political affiliations, religious differences and social status, the unity of Ila-Orangun remains stronger than any division.
Omotayo Babalola (Igbomina Today) is a distinguished historian, political analyst, and public commentator whose insightful commentaries and writings have inspired positive change, enlightened public discourse, and contributed to the advancement of a more informed and orderly society.
