By Araba, Olawale Enifenilanfe:

The 33rd edition of the Ikorodu-Oga Festival, organized by the Ikorodu-Oga Development Association (Ikodass), was successfully held on Saturday, November 16th, 2024. This significant event was coordinated under the leadership of Engr. Rotimi Akeem Erogbogbo, in collaboration with His Royal Majesty, HRM Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, Adegorunshen V, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu Kingdom. The festival aimed to promote cultural heritage, commerce, and industrial development across the Ikorodu Division, while also fostering youth engagement and infrastructural growth.

The grand finale of the festival was honoured by the presence of distinguished dignitaries from local, state, and federal levels of government. Among the prominent attendees were His Excellency Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State; High-Chief Odofin Adewunmi Ogunsanya (SAN), the Chairman of MultiChoice Nigeria Ltd; and Senator Adetokunbo Mukhail Abiru FCA, who was represented by Dr. (Otunba) Saheed Oladapo Ibikunle, a Permanent Board Member of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB). Additionally, Hon. Babajimi Adegoke Benson, Member of the House of Representatives for Ikorodu Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, was present.

Other notable figures included Mr. Bolaji Kayode Robert, Honourable Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development; Hon. Dr. Nurudeen Lanre Yekini-Agbaje, Special Adviser for Rural Development; and Honourable Ogunleye Gbolahan Adetokunbo (OGA), Member of the Lagos State House Assembly representing Ikorodu Constituency 1.

Furthermore, Aarebirin Hon. Princess (Dr) Foshade Olabanji-Oba, National Chairman of the Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria, alongside Chief Dcns. Busola Isikalu, the Iya Oloja General of Ikorodu Division, also attended the event. Numerous aspirants for local government chairmanship positions in Ikorodu were present as well.

In his address at the grand finale of the 33rd Ikorodu Oga Festival, Engr. Erogbogbo, Chairman of Ikodass, spells-out a significant observation: “Every journey has its path, guiding every Lagosian to their destinations.” He drew an analogy with the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, which operates along designated routes from Ikorodu to CMS, emphasizing that individuals, too, navigate their unique paths in life. Engr. Erogbogbo highlighted that those who deviate from established regulations inevitably encounter challenges, thereby underscoring the importance of adherence to guidelines.

The theme of this year’s festival, “Ikorodu: Path to Progress,” serves as an essential reminder of the shared responsibility among the Ikodass team in shaping the future of Ikorodu. Engr. Erogbogbo asserted that this programme transcends mere cultural celebration; it embodies both the progress accomplished and the ambitions envisaged ahead.

He encouraged all attendees to reflect on their past achievements, current experiences, and future aspirations. He stated, “What we leave behind is our history; the present is our transit while the future is our goal.” This reflection on the past is crucial, as it draws inspiration from prominent figures who have made significant contributions to the state and the nation. Renowned individuals such as “Bobby Benson, Chief Jayesimi, Cheif Adeniran Ogunsanya, S.B. Bakare, Erelu Ota, S.O. Gbadamosi, Dr. Tajudeen Bawa-Allah, Chief T.O.S. Benson, Cheif Ajisebutu, Chief Mrs. Oshinowo aka Iya Layi, Asiwaju Babatunde Olusola Benson (GCOI) and others” have set remarkable standards in various domains, including commerce, politics, and entertainment.

Engr. Erogbogbo emphasized that these legacy bearers have established foundational pillars upon which contemporary leaders continue to build.

The current administration is committed to fostering an inclusive governance model that prioritizes the comprehensive interests of Ikorodu. Engr. Erogbogbo reaffirmed their determination to elevate Ikorodu’s standing as a rapidly developing cosmopolitan city within the Lagos IBILE framework. “We shall continue to strive to change the narrative about Ikorodu for the better,” he affirmed.

Additionally, the speech acknowledged the significant support provided by His Royal Majesty, HRM Oba (Engr.) Kabir Adewale Shotobi, the paramount ruler of the Ikorodu Division, and Olori Kudirat Abosede Shotobi recognised their pivotal role in the success of this historic event.

During a recent address, Oba Shotobi formally articulated the necessity for infrastructure development, specifically advocating for the construction of a dual carriageway along the Ojogbe axis. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the road network in Ikorodu. In acknowledging this proposal, His Excellency Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat emphasized the significance of such infrastructure improvements.

Dr. Hamzat, in his speech, underscored the importance of cultural traditions and expressed his joy in participating in the Ikorodu Oga Festival, stating that such events amplify Ikorodu’s visibility. He highlighted the value of providing scholarships to students as a meaningful investment in the future.

Additionally, he expressed gratitude towards High-Chief Odofin Adewunmi Ogunsanya (SAN), Chairman of MultiChoice Nigeria Ltd., for his significant contributions to uplifting the less privileged and fostering capacity building, as well as advancing health, security, and infrastructure development within the Ikorodu Division. Dr. Hamzat commended Oba Shotobi for his exemplary leadership, concluding that positive development results from timely and intentional efforts and commended Hon. Dr. Agbaje (Nero) for his effective agitation towards the development of Ikorodu Division.

Hon. Babajimi Adegoke Benson, the Member of the House of Representatives for Ikorodu Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Defence reassured constituents of the Ikorodu division regarding the delivery of enhanced democratic benefits by early 2025. He expressed gratitude to Dr. Hamzat for initiating the construction of Lambo Lasunwon Primary School and thanked the electorate for their support in his election to the National Assembly.

He commended the organizers of the 33rd Ikorodu Oga Festival, stating, “I am pleased to commend the organizers. This year’s festival is a phenomenon and surpasses the success of 2023.”

Senator Adetokunbo Mukhail Abiru FCA, represented by Otunba Dr. Saheed Ibikunle, congratulated His Royal Majesty, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, for the notable development that has occurred during his reign and affirmed his commitment to continue advancing the Ikorodu Division. He expressed prayers for the longevity and prosperity of Kabiyesi.

In a recent interview, Hon. Dr. Nurudeen Lanre Yekini-Agbaje, the Special Adviser for Rural Development, provided insights regarding the forthcoming 33rd Ikorodu-Oga Festival.

He emphasized that this year’s event is projected to exhibit a greater degree of advancement compared to the 2023 edition. Dr. Yekini-Agbaje articulated that the Ikorodu-Oga Festival in the upcoming year will adopt a modernized approach, distinguishing itself through advancements in social and cultural heritage. This transformation aims to celebrate the rich traditions of the Ikorodu community while integrating contemporary elements that appeal to a wider audience. The anticipated changes are designed to enhance the festival experience, honouring historical legacies while embracing innovative methods to engage participants and visitors alike.

In his welcoming address, Honourable Ogunleye Gbolahan Adetokunbo (OGA), representing Ikorodu Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, extended appreciation to His Excellency Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat for honouring the occasion and thanked the attendees for their presence.

His Royal Majesty, HRM Oba (Engr.) Kabir Adewale Shotobi in agreement with the entire marketers across the Ikorodu division has recently had the coronation of Chief Deaconess Busola Elizabeth as the Iya-Oloja General of Ikorodu Division. This significant event took place on November 15th, 2025, at the Ayangbure Palace, where she was officially recognized alongside her deputy, Princess Adebukola Osho, and 54 market chieftains from the Ikorodu division.

In her public address, Iya-Oloja General Chief Deaconess Busola Elizabeth called for unity among marketers, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in advancing the commerce and industries of the Ikorodu division. She urged all stakeholders to work together to elevate local businesses and promote the region’s economic growth, reinforcing the idea that success begins at the grassroots level.

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