The Omo-Ajorosun Club of Ibadanland has identified with the government and people of Oyo State, particularly Ibadan over a stampede that occurred during a children fun fair on the 18th December, 2024 leading to deaths of over 35 children and many hospitalised.
The President of the Club, Chief Engr. Sunday Gbenjo described the incident as unfortunate and avoidable one and call for investigation into the matter.
“We received with rude shock the incident that occurred at Islamic High, Basorun Ibadan in the early hours of yesterday which involved the former queen of His Imperial Majesty, Ooni of Ife, Queen Naomi as the convener of the funfair to celebrate children in this festive season, which led to a stampede leading to the death of about 35 children as at press time and several others receiving treatment. While we are aware of the swift response of the State Government in investigating the matter, we commiserate with the families of those involved and demand justice” Bashorun (Engr) Sunday Oyekanmi Gbenjo further stated that to avoid future occurrence organizers of big events of such nature must plan properly and invest in crowd management and security of the events.
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes has announced Tuesday 17th December,2024 for the grand commissioning of the multi-million naira energy station project donated by Mogaji Basorun Fajimi Compound, Chief Oladiran Abiodun Alabi (Yerombi).
The energy station built inside the new Olubadan palace at Oke-Aremo is to power the Palace and Ibadan House by extension.
To do the commissioning is the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde, who’s also the Special Guest of Honour, the Royal Father of the day is His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin 1, Olubadan-in -Council members are the Special Guests while Chief Barr. Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole, President Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes is the Chief Host.
The President-General, Chief Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole appreciated Mogaji Basorun Fajimi Compound, Chief Oladiran Abiodun Alabi Yerombi for the kind gesture as the energy project will address power issue in the palace, promising that it will be judiciously used and properly maintained
The Royal Group also known as Egbe Omo-Oba Alade Ile Ibadan, an affiliate club of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes has concluded plan to induct new members into the club in a grand style.
According to a statement made available by the Public Relations Officer of the clubs, Omo-oba Adeniran Ayodele on behalf of the President, Prince Kamikum Akewula stated that the ceremony has been scheduled to take place at the Conference Room, Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo on the 21st of December, 2024.
The ceremony according to the club will also be the end of the year meeting and has been planned to be glamorous and eventful. The intending members to be inducted include: Fasina Oyewole Kazeem, Alimi Saheed,Kolade Shakur, Rasheed Adewale, Oyediran Taiwo, Basiru Abiodun Asimiyu and Kayode Ajani.
According to the tradition of the club, all inductees after being formally admitted to the group can start adding the prefix “Prince or Omo-Oba” before the mention of their names at meetings and public functions.
Balogun Gaphar Ojetola, Chairman of the 2022 and 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, and his dear wife, have extended their heartfelt congratulations to Barrister Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole and his wife on this monumental recognition as the Aare Atunluse and Yeye Aare Atunluse of Ibadanland.
“Your remarkable leadership as the President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has been a beacon of inspiration for us all. The honor bestowed upon you by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Dr. Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin, is an acknowledgement of your unparalleled dedication, values, and commitment to the progress and preservation of Ibadanland”
“Your tenure has been a season of transformation and achievement. From the completion and commissioning of the Ibadan Modern Palace to your consistent efforts in uniting and uplifting the community, your impact will forever be etched in the annals of Ibadan’s history”
“As you and your beautiful wife receive this prestigious chieftaincy title, may Allah’s mercy and divine blessings continue to shine upon you both. May you enjoy this honor in good health, happiness, and prosperity as you continue to serve Ibadanland with grace and distinction”Balogun Gaphar Ojetola Chairman, Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee (2022 & 2024) & Asaaju Iyalode, Alhaja Ramat Kikelomo Ojetola.
Ibadan Mega Voice, a distinguished group of professional media practitioners, including musicians and entertainers of Ibadan origin, marked her 2nd anniversary with a grandfinale on the 24th November 2024 with an elaborate ceremony held at the Bode Amao Hall, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan House.
The event featured the presentation of awards of excellence and appreciation to notable individuals for their outstanding contributions to the development of Ibadanland and humanity at large, particularly in their respective fields of endeavour.
The ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Chief Sulaimon Adeniyi Ajewole, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, who served as the chairman of the occasion. Chief Mrs. Iswat Abiola Amerigun, the Iyaloja General of Ibadanland, was present as the mother of the day, adding a touch of elegance and prestige to the event.
In his keynote address, Chief Sulaimon Ajewole commended members of Ibadan Mega Voice for their relentless efforts in promoting the cultural heritage and unity of Ibadanland through the arts and media. He emphasized the importance of collective contributions towards the progress of Ibadan and charged the group to remain steadfast in their vision. The CCII President General also used the opportunity to give an update on the demand for Ibadan State, and assured both citizens and residents that it will be achieved in due time.
Chief Mrs. Iswat Ameringun, in her goodwill message, praised the group for her contributions to the media and entrainment space, and encouraged stakeholders to continue supporting the creative industry as a vital component of societal advancement.
The high point of the event was the award presentation, which saw deserving individuals celebrated for their excellence in diverse fields, ranging from media, culture, and entertainment to community development and public service.
While delivering his speech, President of IMV, Aare Kola Olomide reaffirmed the group’s dedication to advancing the Ibadan narrative positively through media and entertainment. He expressed gratitude to all who attended and supported the celebration, promising to continue contributing to the development of the city and beyond.
The awardees included: Alh. Taye Adebisi Currency, Mogaji Abdulsabur Abiola Olawore, Hon. Adebayo Amusat-Gbenla, Chief Saheed Oladele, Baameko of Ibadanland, Alh. Hashim Atere, Chairman, Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board ( Muslim Wing), Hon. Sikiru Sanda, Chairman, Egbeda Local Government and Chairman, ALGON, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaja Nurat Bola Yusuf, Ola Mummy Food Canteen among other personalities.
The 2nd-anniversary celebration of Ibadan Mega Voice was a resounding success, leaving a long lasting memory in the mind of those who attended.
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Adeniyi Akintola is to preside over the 50th Founder’s Day Anniversary lecture of Lagelu 16 Club, a socio-cultural organization.
Also, the Royal Father of the day, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin,Olubadan of Ibadanland will join other prominent sons of Ibadanland to celebrate the Club’s Founder’s Day on Saturday, November 23,2024.
The Special Guest of Honour at the occasion is His Excellency, the Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barr Bayo Lawal while the Guest lecturer is Dr Durodola Ogunsesan of The Polytechnic, Ibadan. He will be delivering the lecture titled “The Gasping Ibadan inner-core areas : Need for its sustainable development”.Venue is Dapo Aderogba Hall, NUJ Press Center, Iyaganku, Ibadan.
Other eminent personalities expected to grace the occasion include Chief Jide Dosu Babatunde, Chief Mrs Victoria Samson, CEO, BOVAS Group among others.
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes under the leadership of Barrister Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole hosted representatives from National Education Loan Fund, NELFUND office, Abuja at it’s 1st November General Assembly meeting of all Ibadan sons and daughters at the Bode Amao Hall of Ibadan house, with a call on Ibadan Indigenes to explore opportunities in the project.
In his address, Barrister Ajewole stated that his administration was worried that majority of students from southwest based institutions are yet to maximise the opportunity provided by the fund He stated that his administration saw the need to raise the awareness since there was low enrollment among students from this side of the country and advised parents, guardians and significant others to maximise the opportunity for their children.
It would be recalled that the Nigerian Student Loan initiative was championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and enacted through the Access to Higher Education Act of 2023, with the aim to provide interest-free loans for underprivileged Nigerian students attending public tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and vocational schools. Despite its wide-reaching benefits, data shows a surprising underutilization of this loan scheme by Yoruba students, raising concerns about the need for increased awareness within the community.
In their presentation, the representatives from the NELFUND office, Abuja, Mr Wale Ogunleye, (Head of Information Technology, who led the team ,; Mr Gbadamosi Oriyomi (PA to the MD/CEO of NELFUND) and Mr Waziri Idris of Corporate Communications, states that the students’ loan is designed to make higher education “accessible to more Nigerians, allow students from low-income families (earning less than N500,000 annually) to access funds for tuition and other essential fees. Beneficiaries are expected to start repaying the loan two years after completing the National Youth Service, with repayment structured at a 10% deduction from monthly salaries.
Mr Wale Ogunleye explained that for self-employed individuals, 10% of their monthly profit will be deducted until the loan is fully repaid. The structured approach aims to make education accessible while balancing repayment obligations for beneficiaries once they begin earning income, the team submitted He further stated that while the tuition fee will be paid directly into the beneficiary institution account, #20,000 is to be paid to the beneficiary personal account for upkeep at the end of each month, and that the loan can be accessed from first year up to the students final year in school The team stated that NELFUND on its website also has a platform for job adverts for beneficiaries to assist them.secure jobs to facilitate swift and seamless repayment of the loan secured for fund their tertiary education and encouraged students and parents to explore the benefits of the scheme. The NeLFUND team stressed that the programme not only provides financial relief but also opens doors for educational and economic empowerment across Nigeria.
“The mission of the NELFUND team for engaging with CCII is to create awareness. dispel all misinformation around it’s operations and encourage parents to allow their children get onboard NELFUND for unrestricted access to tertiary education.”
The President-General of CCII reiterated that with the provision of the fund, the era of indigent students is gradually coming to an end and implored both Indigenes and residents of Ibadan to leverage on the opportunity as it aims to position education as a tool to combat poverty and elevate their status
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes CCII at its General Assembly of Friday, 6th. October 2023 formally approved the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, as presented before the house by the President General, Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole Esq.
The 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, herein referred to as “the committee” was given the assignment to organize the Annual Ibadan Cultural Festival Programme. The committee was inaugurated by the Executive Council on Friday 3rd November, 2024 at the Ibadan House, Oke Aremo Ibadan.The committee, at the inaugural meeting, set up fourteen (14) sub-committees to assist the Central committee in achieving the given assignment.The Chairman of the Committee, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola, expressed his appreciation to all the members especially the committee executive team namely, Dr. Mrs Monsurat Ayo Alaga (Vice Chairman), Engineer Busari Akere (Secretary) and Dr. Mrs Iyabo Fadiora (Assistant Secretary ). He extended appreciation also to the Sub-Committee Chairmen and Secretaries.
The committee is blessed with many other eggheads too numerous to be specially mentioned.For the first time in history, a Cultural Festival dedicated bank account was launched by the CCII Exco in response to the Cultural Festival Committee Chairman request. Thanks to the President General and the Treasurer for all the efforts in this regard.A Board Room platform which comprises of all Chairmen of Sub-Committees, Representatives of Market Leaders and the Warlords Association, Representatives of the Ibadan Prime Youths Forum including the representatives of selected media establishments, hold virtual meetings to brainstorm on the progress, developments and challenges encountered at various sub-committee levels.A total of twelve (12) Central Committee physical meetings and series of virtual interactive sessions were held before the commencement of the main events alongside a series of parallel sub-committee meetings.
Reports and feedback were made to the Executive council during Executive meetings and as may be requested.This year Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee introduced an Internally Generated Fund Initiative through voluntary donations from the committee members. The donations represented our take off grant and thanks to all our very patriotic members.Another novel initiative for fund generation was introduced through Special Decorations on identified individuals. A comprehensive list of our Grand Ambassadors of Ibadan Culture will appear under Decorations and Awards however, it is important to note that it was at such occasions where His Eminence, Aare Dr. Dawood Makanjuola De-Damak investiture as The Grand Commander of Ibadan Culture ( GCIC ) that a brand new 18 Seater Bus worth Thirty Eight Million Naira (N38M) and Ten million naira was donated. May his wealth and health continue to increase. AmenIt is thus worthy of note to mention that this committee does not make any recourse whatsoever to the CCII fund in executing this year’s cultural festival from commencement to the Grand Finale. To God belongs all glory.
The Official Flag Off for the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival was held on Monday 19th February, 2024 in a grand style following the initial approval of His Excellency, The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Abiodun Oluwaseyi Makinde FNSE, DSC, GSSRS for the Cultural festival to be held between 14th and 20th April, 2024.The passing of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Sen. Dr. Mohood Ishola Olalekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II on the 14th March, 2024 brought abrupt suspension to all the cultural activities. His Imperial Majesty was interned on the 15th March, 2024 according to the muslim rites.There was a period of Interregnum between the 15th March, 2024 till 12th July, 2024 due to an unusual delay in the installation and coronation of the new Olubadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I.The New Aafin Olubadan was commissioned on Wednesday 10th July while the new Olubadan was installed and crowned on Friday 12th July, 2024 to pave the way for resumption of the cultural festival activities.During the period of the interregnum, some Staggered Programs were held between Friday 31st May and Thursday 4th July, 2024 such as the Finals of Ibadan Got Talent, Orekelewa Brain and Beauty Pageant, All Ibadan Youths Conference, Table Tennis and Ayo Olopon Finals, Stage Play on Balogun Ajayi Osungbekunmi, Education All categories Finals and Football competition finals.The committee visited fourteen (14) media houses, Speaker House of Assembly, Six State Commissioners, the Chief Judge, the Council of Iyalodes, the Olubadan-in-Council, Dr. Chief Omololu Olunloyo, the Deputy Governor, the Wife of the Governor and other very important personalities in and outside the state to solicit support and sponsorship of the program.Ten Grand Ambassadors of Ibadan Culture (GAIC ) and One Grand Commander of Ibadan Culture (GCIC ) were decorated with pop and pageantryNumerous deserving and worthy individuals received different awards in the categories of MPII, MDII, MOFI and MOWI before and during the Grand Finale.All proceeds were directly remitted to the dedicated FCMB Account of the CCII Cultural Festival and transparently managed by the CCII signatories.The CCII and the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee paid Royal Homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland,
His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin and his Council on the 22nd July, 2024 to receive Royal blessing and approval to continue with the programs of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival.The program resummed on the 24th July, 2024 with the newly introduced innovation into the cultural festival where Ibadan Local Couisines such as Aawon, Oojo, Ekuru, Akaakoko, Tuuwo, Egbo and Ewa, Oole ati eko, Ekomimun ati akara kengbe, dundu ati ewa were served as breakfast to two thousands members at the historical Mapo Hall Arena, Ibadan. This was followed by Road Show from Mapo Hall to Ibadan House.The annual Amala Festival and Fuji Fiesta was held on the same day at the Ibadan House Premises. Awards were presented to notable Ibadan Business Leaders and leading Fuji musicians. His Royal Majesty, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja , Chief Bayo Oyero, Chief Mrs Bode Amao, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima, Oyo State Chief Judge , Chief Mrs Mutiat Ladoja and a host of other Important dignitaries graced the ocassion. Hot Amala with assorted meat, fish and ogunfe were served to more than 2,000 members and special guests. Alhaji Tajudeen System, Alhaji Rashidi Ayinde and other Fuji Stars performed on stage at this epoc making event where all were dressed in this year’s Amala Day Festival.The Business Luncheon was held at the Ilaji Hotels and Resorts where series of awards were presented to various awardees in different categories.
A prominent Lagos based entertainer, Peter Akah who had shown tremendous love of Ibadanland by memorising all the Ibadan rulers since inception till date on a viral social media was brought in for due recognition and appreciation. He received material gifts, an award and cash gifts of more than Three million naira on the spot. His joy knows no bounds and was full of praises of Ibadanland.Friday 26th July, 2024 was the Special Jummah Service which was held at the Oja’Ba Central Mosque and all the Central Mosques in Ibadanland. The Chief Imaam of Ibadanland prayed for the Leadership of the CCII and Ibadanland especially on the successful completion of the Aafin Olubadan during this regime. The Jummah Service was well attended by members of the CCII affiliate clubs.The Fellowship Award was held immediately after the Jummah Service at the Civic Center where several awardees received their nominated awards. The Oyo State Speaker, House of Assembly, many Local Government Chairmen, Obas and Council of Mogajis and Baales graced this august ocassion.The Grand Finale was held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium on Saturday, 27th July, 2024. This year’s Grand Finale was specially attended by the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engineer Abiodun Oluwaseyi Makinde, FNSE, DSC, GSSRS, The First Lady, Chief Mrs Tamunominini Makinde who received the coveted Most Outstanding Wife of Ibadanland MOWI, the Deputy Governor, Barrister AbdRaheem Adebayo Lawal who received the coveted Most Outstanding Friend of Ibadanland MOFI , the Chairman of the Ocassion, Deacon Oladejo Owolabi , CEO IBR Impact Radio and Adelayo Academy and other very important dignitaries. The President General, Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole played Host to these important dignitaries. Vey important dignitaries from home and abroad were called forward to receive several categories of awards. The event witnessed the traditional parade of the masquerades, Warlord Exhibitions and the colorful exhibition of variety affiliate clubs. Live streaming and broadcasting through all available social media networks showcased this year’s cultural festival to the full acceptance of the International audience. Glory be to God almighty.
The Special Thanksgiving Service was held at The Cathedral of St. Peters Aremo at a fully packed event. The Bishop prayed for the CCII, Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria. May we continue to celebrate many more Ibadan Cultural Festival. Amen
MAJOR CHALLENGES
Despite a smooth take-off of this year’s activities, we recorded quite a number of major challenges which constituted an unimaginable set back to the program.
Passage of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lekan Balogun at the middle of the programme .
Four months gap between the passage of one Oba to the installation of another Olubadan.
A longest period of interregnum in the history of Ibadanland.
Skyrocket increase in the prices of commodities.
High cost of fuel towering above one thousand naira per litre.
The need to recirculate hundreds of sponsorship letters in and outside the state . Effect of changes in dates on our potential sponsors.
Difficulty encountered for securing the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium for the Grand Finale on time which led to the delay in setting up the venue. We thank Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli for his last minute intervention in this regard.
APOLOGIES
The delay in accessing the Grand Finale venue caused untold hardships for the vendors who brought canopies, chairs, tables and other rentals as they were denied access to the venue a day prior. This affected some affiliate clubs in making necessary arrangements for their members. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.Some paid adverts and goodwill messages were not captured in our brochures for some technical reasons, please accept our apologies. Necessary arrangement is in place to either refund payment or repost the material in subsequent CCII Publications.
APPRAISALS/APPRECIATIONS
First and foremost, we return all praises and adoration to God almighty for making it possible for us to deliver an unprecedented 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival.
To God belongs all the glory.We thank the Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole led CCII Executive Council for giving us the opportunity to serve our fatherland in this capacity. We also thank the entire members of the CCII for their prayers and support without which we couldn’t have recorded this exemplary success. Appreciation is also due to the entire administrative and non-administrative staff of Ibadan House.
Thank you all. Importantly, immense appreciation goes to all the members of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee by standing firmly with devotion, dedication and total commitment in ensuring that success is achieved, through thick and thin. Almighty God will never desert you at your point of needs.E se A dupe, I hold you all in very high esteem.We must not fail to specially appreciate all the affiliate clubs for making this year’s program the MOST COLORFUL, ATTRACTIVE AND ENTERTAINING EVENT in the history of Ibadan Cultural Festival. Thanks and God Bless you All.To our donors who are never tired of supporting all our activities generously, may the good Lord continue to increase you in all capacities.I pray that my successor will keep the flag higher and build on the established success story.Ile Ibadan yoo gbe gbogbo wa O. Aamin.E ba n gbomo Oke, Lanti Lantiiii.
On behalf of the members of the Iyalode-in-Council, we join countless others in celebrating an extraordinary woman, our beloved Iyalode of Ibadanland, Chief Theresa Laduntan Oyekanmi, on the occasion of her 91st birthday.
As the 14th Iyalode, you have embodied the values of leadership, service, and dedication to Ibadan’s traditional institutions. Your unwavering commitment to promoting the welfare of women and the development of Ibadanland has left a remarkable legacy. From your early days of service as a trained nurse and health professional, through your steadfast work at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, to your impactful role in the traditional council, your life’s work has been defined by excellence and selfless service.
You have stood as a shining example of leadership for women in Ibadan, consistently championing women’s empowerment and development. Under your watch, the role of women in the socio-political and cultural climate of Ibadanland has been strengthened. Your contributions to human development and your dedication to issues affecting the well-being of the people have earned you the respect and admiration of all.We, the Iyalode-in-Council, honor you today, not just for your titles, but for the woman you are steadfast, wise, and compassionate. May this year bring you continued joy, health, and fulfillment as you continue to inspire us all with your legacy.
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) is immensely proud and delighted to extend its heartfelt congratulations to Senator Sarafadeen Alli on his prestigious elevation to the esteemed position of Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland. This significant honor is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the values, traditions, and development of our beloved Ibadanland.
Senator Sarafadeen Alli’s elevation is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of his tireless dedication to the service of our great city and its people. As a distinguished public servant, community leader, and advocate for progress, Senator Alli has consistently demonstrated an exceptional capacity for leadership, integrity, and vision. His journey to this revered position has been marked by a profound commitment to the welfare of Ibadan indigenes, and his elevation to Ekarun Balogun is a well-deserved recognition of his enduring contributions.
Throughout his illustrious career, Senator Alli has been a beacon of hope and inspiration, not only in the political arena but also within the social and cultural fabric of Ibadanland. His efforts have significantly impacted the lives of many, fostering a spirit of unity, progress, and resilience. As Ekarun Balogun, we are confident that he will continue to uphold the values that define our cherished traditions, while also embracing the innovations that will lead Ibadanland into a brighter future.
The CCII is deeply appreciative of Senator Alli’s unwavering support for our initiatives, and we are excited about the prospects of working closely with him in this new capacity. His elevation comes at a time when Ibadanland is poised for greater achievements, and we believe that under his guidance, the future of our city will be marked by sustained growth, development, and cultural renaissance.
As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we wish Senator Sarafadeen Alli wisdom, strength, and continued success in his new role. May his elevation as Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland be filled with achievements that further enhance the legacy of our forefathers and inspire the generations to come.
Once again, congratulations to Senator Sarafadeen Alli and other elevated Obas and High Chiefs, The entire CCII and the people of Ibadanland stand proudly beside you all, ready to support your vision and leadership as you continue to serve our great city with distinction. Oye a tunbo ma te si waju.
Warmest regards, Chief Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole President-General, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII)
