Okeho was aglow with colour, culture, and celebration on Saturday as dignitaries from across Nigeria and the diaspora converged for Okeho Day 2025—a vibrant festival that showcased unity, heritage, and the town’s renewed march toward progress.
The high point of the ceremony was the regal arrival of the Onjo of Okeho, His Royal Majesty Oba Abdulrafiu Osuolale Mustapha, Adeitan II, whose warm welcome set the tone for the festivities. The monarch expressed deep gratitude to guests and explained that the brief pause in past celebrations was tied to major community-driven development initiatives. He extended special appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde, his Deputy Chief Bayo Lawal, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, and other royal fathers for their steadfast support. In a symbolic gesture, the Onjo presented Senator Abdulfatai Buhari with a “Thank You” banner for his significant contributions to Okeho’s advancement.
Representing Governor Makinde, Deputy Governor Chief Bayo Lawal celebrated the people of Okeho for their resilience and achievements. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure and ensuring a thriving environment for residents. Lawal highlighted the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho (FUNATO) as a milestone divinely aligned with the town’s aspirations and made possible through the dedication of leaders including Professor Segun Gbadegesin and Senator Fatai Buhari.
The atmosphere became even more electrifying with the arrival of the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, who commended the unity of Okeho people and encouraged them to continue backing the Onjo in steering the town’s future.
Speaking on behalf of the community, the President of Egbe Omo Ibile Okeho, Dr. K. Alarape Salawu, described this year’s celebration as one centred on gratitude. He highlighted key achievements—rehabilitation of the Iseyin–Okeho–Iganna Road, installation of a 33 KVA power line, reopening of a commercial bank, and the establishment of new tertiary institutions. He appealed to the state government to prioritize the rehabilitation of the Alaga–Ado-Awaye Road.
Chairman of the Okeho Day Planning Committee, Captain Adegboyega Olopoenia, applauded the resilience and contributions of all supporters. He stressed the need for enhanced security across Okeho and surrounding communities despite the encouraging progress.
Traditional rulers including the Olokaka of Okakaland, Oba Abdulazeez Olatunji Ayoola, and the Elero of Ilero Land, Oba Wasiu Oyedele Saka, also lauded the Onjo, expressing unwavering support for Okeho’s continued development under the Oke-Ogun Obas Consultative Forum.
A major highlight of the day was the public fundraising session, chaired by renowned legal icon Barrister Ahmed Raji (SAN). Among the notable contributions was the remarkable pledge by Barrister Beulah Adeoye, who committed to building a 200-bed student hostel for FUNATO, reinforcing Okeho’s rapid educational transformation.
Okeho Day 2025 ended on a jubilant note—an inspiring blend of culture, royalty, and community vision, reflecting a town firmly on the path to greater prosperity.