By Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
Forner Director -General of Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council in the last general elections, Chief Akin Osuntokun has endorsed Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti state for second term.
Osuntokun who was former Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs and one-time Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), spoke at this year’s festival theme titled “Let’s Celebrate Our Rich Cultural Heritage and Values”. Osuntokun, who holds the high traditional title of Balogun of Okemesi-Ekiti, and doubles as the Chairman of this year’s edition, of the crowd-pulling festival, explained that with what he has seen so far in the state, the Governor deserves second term
Specifically, Osuntokun commended the state government, under Gov. Biodun Oyebanji for it’s infrastructural development efforts, saying he deserves to be re-elected as governor for a second term, based on overall performance in many other areas.
The former Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs used the occasion to called the governor’s attention to the need to close gaps hindering the growth of the town’s cultural heritage and tourism potentials
Highlighting the festival’s role in promoting unity, peace, harmony, peace and cultural pride, Osuntokun urged the state government to invest more in the cultural and tourism sectors, particularly in Okemesi, stressing that such investment would yield economic benefits for both the town and the state.
Osuntokun, who holds the high traditional title of Balogun of Okemesi-Ekiti, and doubles as the Chairman of this year’s edition, of the crowd-pulling festival, explained that the traditional gathering, serves as a valuable platform, not only to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the community, but also to galvanize support for its socio-economic development.
According to him “The Okemesi Cultural Heritage celebration, embodies our commitment to preserving and promoting our rich cultural values, which prioritise unity, security, and shared responsibility.
He said “The festival also offers a platform for fostering initiatives that uplift the community, while also uniting all sons, daughters, and friends, in a collective celebration of identity”, Osuntokun said.
In the same vein, the Owa Ooye of Okemesi-Ekiti, Oba Gbadebo Adedeji, Oba Adedeji explained that contributions from the community leaders, businesses, and residents, affirmed dedication to maintaining Okemesi as a safe, inclusive, and prosperous ancient town, where traditions are honoured, and progress is celebrated.
“As we embrace the spirit of this year’s festivities, let us take pride in our Okemesi-Ekiti identity, and instil in future generations, the values of integrity, respect, and community development .
” The Okemesi Cultural Heritage celebration is a call to action for us all to champion our culture, and stand united against forces that threaten our peace and values.
The traditional ruler, described his town as an entity that was never conquered by any war, but rather assisted Ekiti generally to win wars.
He boasted of the town’s incomparable rich cultural heritage, and of which everyone in Yorubaland are very proud.
Oba Adedeji emphasised the vast cultural and tourism potential in the town, lamenting the apathy and inaction of political appointees from the area in advancing its development.
He noted that Okemesi boasts natural and cultural landmarks, including mountains and museums, which could be harnessed as major tourist attractions, but lamented that political appointees from the area had failed to champion or advocate for meaningful government investment.
Speaking on the importance of the festival, the traditional ruler said it was a cultural gathering that attracted people outside the state to witness the various displays of Masquerades, especially, the most prominent one called Ladunwo.
He said Ladunwo masquerade is significant among others because of its power to cure sicknesses, protect its people from danger and its amusing display of entertainment.
Oba Adedeji commended governor Oyebanji for his efforts in improving infrastructure in the state, and Okemesi in particular.
“This Egungun festival is enough for the government to invest in. If you say you want to go and climb a mountain, visit museum, we have it in Okemesi here”.
Speaking about the seriousness the present administration attaches to issues of culture and tourism, especially the uniqueness of Okemesi-Ekiti in the entire history of Ekiti, Oyebanji highlighted Ekiti’s historical role in Yorubaland, as a centre of influence, promoting trade, leadership, and innovation, among the people of the region, and and beyond.
The Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Prof. Rasaki Ojo-Bakare, said that the state government is actively working to elevate the festival into a recognised tourism attraction.
According to Prof. Ojo- Bakare, “Ekiti remained a space that encourages innovation, knowledge-sharing, and economic growth”.
Among other prominent sons of Okemesi who were present at the festival were; Akogun Tai Oguntayo, Moses Jolayemi, Raphael Adeyanju and Morakinyo Ogunnniyi.
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