Ibadan Cultural Festival: CCII to honour Oyo Chief Judge, Justice Yerima

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes has announced its decision to honour and decorate the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice I. S Yerima with the title Distinguished Fellow Award -DFA.

The announcement was made during the visitation of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Week Central Committee led by the Chairman, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola to the office of the State Chief Judge.

The CCII delegation were received by the Honourable Chief Judge, alongside Hon. Justice Olagunju, Hon. Justice (Mrs) Sule, Alhaja Oyediran, Chief Registrar, Mr Abiodun Adebisi; Assistant Chief Registrar & Mrs Olomide; Assistant Chief Registrar.

According to the Chairman of 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Week, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola, the visitation was under the instruction of Chief Barr. Niyi Ajewole, the President -General of Central Council of Ibadan, and part of the pre-activities of this year’s Ibadan Cultural Festival celebration is to visit high personalities in the State and ensuring that no-one is left.

The Chairman outlined the various activities lined up for the week-long program of this year’s Ibadan Cultural Festival of which the Grand Finale is expected immediately after the new Olubadan coronation.

Part of the activities mapped out were Education Competitions from Primary Schools, Secondary Schools and Higher Institutions, Sports competition between the eleven local governments of Ibadanland, Talent- Hunts, Ibadan Conference , Free Shopping, Ibadan Youths Day, Amala/ Indigenous Music Fiesta, Ibadan Conference and Ibadan Street Parade, Business Luncheon and winding the week down with the Grand Finale where series of well deserved awards will be bestowed on merit winners.

According to the Chairman, the grand finale will take place on a Saturday in May which will mark the end of the Cultural Festival and will hold at the Liberty Stadium where the Chief Judge and other distinguished personalities, including Ibadan sons and daughters and non-Ibadan will receive their various awards.

Among those penned down to be honoured includes Her Excellency, the Wife of the State Governor, Engr. Mrs Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde (Most Outstanding Wife of Ibadanland), His Excellency, the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal (Most Outstanding Friend of Ibadanland. MOFI) among other important personalities.

In addition, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola acknowledged the support the State Governor, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde has been giving Ibadan land, and by extension the CCII and Ibadan Cultural Festival.

The Hon. Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima paid glowing tributes to the leadership of the CCII for bestowing the award on her personality and pledged her total support for the success of the Cultural Festival. She prayed that Ibadanland will continue to record more success, progress and development. The Chief Justice commended the State Governor on his unflinching support towards the newly completed Olubadan Palace, first of its kind in the South West of Nigeria. She commended the visiting team and the leadership of the Central Council of Ibadanland.

In the entourage of Balogun Gaphar Ojetola were Engr. Busari Akere; Secretary 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Week, Ambassador Chief Mrs Idowu Olaide Lawal; Member CCII board of trustee & Chairperson Amala, Cultural & Historical Tours Sub. Committee, Mogaji Kunle Shodeinde; 1st Assistant Secretary-General, CCII & Chairman Market, Contact & Resource Mobilization Sub-committee, Chief Mrs Temitope Awotunde; Chairperson Orekelewa Brain & Beauty Sub-committee, Dr. Iyabode Fadiora Alaga; Assistant Secretary 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Week, Engr. Abiodun Bello; Member Business Luncheon Sub-committee, Mr Caleb Akande; CCII Treasurer, Alhaja Mrs Folasade Olayiwola; CCII Social Secretary & Chairperson Sports Sub-committee, Dr. Ademola Taiwo; CCII legal adviser, Mr Ademola Solalu; Co-chairman Media& Publicity Sub-committee, Mr Olugbade Bukunmi; Secretary Venue & Security Sub-committee, Mr Oladele Tokunbo; Member Historical, Cultural Tour & Entertainment Sub-committees, Mr “Kayode Ajani; Secretary Orekelewa Brain &Beauty Pageant & Member Media & Publicity Sub-committee.

CCII celebrates H.E Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo at 89, to honour him with Ibadan highest award

Today, Tuesday 16th April, 2024, Ibadan Indigenes, under the leadership of Chief (Barr.) Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole, President -General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes paid a visit to celebrate Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo on his 89th birth anniversary at his Molete residence.

According to Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola, the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee Chairman who led the delegation, he described Pa. Engineer Dr .Victor Omololu Olunloyo as a reservoir of knowledge, whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the fabric of Ibadanland, Nigeria and the world at large, earning a PHD at age 25 years, among others.

“Dr. Omololu Olunloyo is notably one of Africa’s most brilliant scholars, a forthright and highly cerebral Mathematician and a walking encyclopaedia whose uncommon vast historical knowledge on Ibadan, Yoruba, Africa and the whole world is second to none”

Part of the anniversary letter reads “As a public administrator per excellence, as an engineer by training and a world standard Mathematical Authority, it will also be noted of your impressive private studies and authority in Law. You are indeed a moving encyclopedia and a man of many parts.

“We recall how you intervened and resolved many critical Obaship litigations and legal bottlenecks with uncompromised legendary historical facts. The list is endless”

Dr. Olunloyo’s journey of service and excellence spans decades, marked by outstanding achievements in various spheres. As a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and later as the governor of the Old Oyo State, his leadership was characterized by vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to the welfare of the people.

During his tenure as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr. Olunloyo played a pivotal role in the development and governance of local communities, most especially seeing to the successful crowning of two prominent kings in Oyo State, the late Alaafin of Oyo & late Soun of Ogbomoso.

“You were appointed Commissioner for Economic Development for the Western Region in 1962 at the age of 27, in the cabinet of Dr. Moses Majekodunmi. You were also re-appointed when Colonel Adeyinka Adebayo was appointed military governor of Western State. That was another record unbroken”

“You were at one time or the other, Commissioner for Community Development, a two time Commissioner for Education ; Commissioner for Special Duties, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Oyo State which includes crowning of two of Nigeria’s monarchs namely the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III and the Soun of Ogbomosho Oba Oyewunmi Ajagungbade”

As governor of the Old Oyo State, Dr. Olunloyo’s adminstration short but exceptional, left an indelible legacy of progress and transformation. His tenure was marked by bold initiatives aimed at infrastructure development, education reform, and economic empowerment. Under his leadership, significant strides were made in sectors crucial to the well-being of the people, solidifying his reputation as a leader of vision and action.

Beyond his political achievements, Dr. Olunloyo is also celebrated as a world-renowned mathematician, whose knowledge has contributed immensely to the field of mathematics. His intellect and passion for knowledge have earned him recognition and respect on the global stage, bringing pride and acclaim to Ibadanland.

“Your private Library remains one of the richest, if not the best in this part of the World where many Professors have made their point of reference in comparative studies and researches”

“Your mental alertness, irrespective of physical ageing is of immense quality and for this we appreciate God in your life”

Today, as Ibadan commemorate Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo’s 89th birth anniversary, we honor his exemplary life of service, leadership, and intellectual prowess, and for this reason, he has been scheduled to receive the highest Ibadan award, The Most Distinguished Ibadan Indigene ( MDII) at the grand finale of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival which is to take place later in May.

Other members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes delegation includes; Chief Mrs Simiat Adeleke Larodo, Dr. Monsurat Ayo Alaga; the Vice Chairman of 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Week, Engr. Musa Akere; Secretary 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Week, Ambassador Chief Mrs Idowu Olaide Lawal GAIC, member CCII board of trustee and Chairperson Cultural & Historical Tour Sub-committee of 2024 Ibadan Festival Week, Chief Mrs Temitope Awotunde; Chairperson Orekelewa Brain & Beauty Sub-committee, Engr. Abiodun Bello, Ajani Kayode; Secretary Orekelewa Brain & Beauty & Member Media Subcommittee. We wish Papa Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo a healthy longevity and massive wellness in abundance of happiness, joy and tranquility.

FIBSU UNIOSUN: Exploring Ibadan, A Memorable Tour

FIBSU UNIOSUN Members on tour.

In the vibrant spirit of exploration and cultural exchange, the Federation of Ibadan Students Unions Osun State University (FIBSU-UNIOSUN) embarked on an enriching tour of the historic city of Ibadan, under the dynamic leadership of Aare Adepoju Afeez Babatunde. Led by the visionary regime, the journey unfolded into a tapestry of experiences, highlighting the essence and beauty of Ibadan’s heritage.

Upon arrival at the Ibadan House, a warm embrace awaited the students, as they were graciously welcomed by Barrister Niyi Ajewole, the esteemed president of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII). This reception set the tone for the camaraderie and cultural exchange that would characterize the entire tour.

FIBSU UNIOSUN Members on tour.

One of the tour’s highlights was the visitation to the newly built Olubadan Palace, nestled majestically at Oke Aremo. Here, amidst the echoes of history and tradition, students were immersed in the rich tapestry of Ibadan’s royal legacy, gaining insight into its customs and heritage.

Ascending to greater heights, both metaphorically and literally, the tour then led to the iconic Bower’s Tower, perched at Igbo Agala at Oke Aremo. From this vantage point, students beheld the panoramic vista of Ibadan, as the city sprawled below, a testament to its grandeur and resilience.

Amidst the exploration and cultural immersion, moments of leisure and recreation were cherished. At the Royal Boat Cruise in Eleyele, members indulged in relaxation, gaming sessions, and a captivating boat cruise along the tranquil waters. Against the backdrop of Ibadan’s scenic beauty, friendships were forged, and memories etched forever.

Indeed, the tour orchestrated by the FIBSU-UNIOSUN 2023/2024 executives and coordinators, under the astute leadership of Aare Adepoju Afeez Babatunde, transcended mere sightseeing. It was a journey of discovery, unity, and appreciation, weaving together the threads of tradition, history, and camaraderie. As the echoes of laughter and camaraderie lingered, participants departed with hearts full of gratitude, and minds enriched by the vibrant tapestry of Ibadan’s cultural heritage.

CCII felicitates with His Excellency, The Deputy Governor of Oyo State , Barr. AbdRaheem Adebayo Adeleke Lawal on his birth anniversary

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes under the leadership of Chief (Barr.) Niyi Ajewole felicitates with His Excellency, The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, AbdRaheem Adebayo Lawal on the occasion of his birth anniversary.

According to the Chairman of 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival who delivered the birthday message on behalf of the President -General, he described the Deputy Governor as an agent of stability, whose remarkable dedication and unwavering commitment to the betterment of our beloved state, and his tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed, as he continuously strive to make a tangible difference in the lives of our people.

“Your industrious nature is truly commendable. You approach every task with diligence and determination, never faltering in your resolve to serve the citizens of Oyo State with integrity and passion. Your work ethic sets a shining example for others to follow, inspiring a culture of hard work and excellence within the office that you hold”

“Beyond your diligence, your steadfast leadership is a beacon of stability in times of challenge and change. You navigate complex issues with wisdom and grace, always prioritizing the well-being of our state and its people above all else. Your steady hand at the helm has guided us through difficult times, steering us towards a brighter future”

“Your Excellency will recall that the CCII Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee Team paid your Excellency a courtesy visit in your office where the decision of the Council was communicated to your Excellency on your award as the Most Outstanding Friend of Ibadanland (MOFI) in appreciation of your laudable age-long support, loyalty and solidarity with Ibadanland just causes”

Balogun Gaphar also stated that his commitment to the progress and development of Oyo State knows no bounds, as he has spearheaded numerous initiatives and projects that have brought about tangible improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and beyond, supporting the vision of Engr. Oluseyi Makinde FNSE DSC GSSRS, the Executive Governor of Oyo State.

“Your vision for a prosperous and thriving Oyo State is evident in every action you take, and your tireless efforts have laid the foundation for a better tomorrow”

As we celebrate your birthday today, we express our deepest gratitude for your invaluable contributions to our state. May this special day be filled with joy, laughter, and well-deserved recognition for all that you do. Here’s to many more years of impactful leadership and positive change.

Signed:
Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola
Chairman, 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee

Signed:
Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole
President General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes

April 12 Town Hall: Our Deepest Gratitude To Critical Stakeholders; Traditional Rulers, Community Organizers Within And Around Lagelu West ~ Hon. Mudashiru Kamorudeen

It’s been a most fulfilling day, both politically and socially. We joined His Royal Highness, the Ololorunda of Olorunda-Aba, Oba wa, Samuel Oludele Abiodun Folarin, JP in a well appointed town hall meeting with Traditional Rulers, Market leaders, Women Farmers, and members of Olorunda Development Association (ODA).

It was all part of our engagement with critical stakeholders and organizers in the local communities.

At the core of our engagement, we offered thoughts about how we can reframe our debate on the delivery of governance in reaffirming our commitment to democratic values through a close and constant engagement with communities, in our own local clime. This is all that the April 12th Town Hall meeting was about. It was an affirmation of our shared, unyielding belief that Yes Together We Can!

Our most sincerest appreciation to the Ololorunda of Olorunda-Aba, Oba wa, Samuel Oludele Folarin, JP, the entire traditional rulers within and around Lagelu West, the Agba-Akin of Olorunda, Oloye Benedict Akika, members of Olorunda Development Association (ODA), the Women Farmers Association, and market leaders— for playing host to us, and for gathering together an equally impressive group of thinkers and community organizers for discourse on important factors that can help bring confidence in our government and in our local democracy, and that’s the widespread sense of community engagement, by which, we believed, the people can be an important part of their own government.

It’s truly remarkable to reflect on the historic significance of the town hall, today- and the sense of hope it instilled. Thank you all for sharing your thoughts and experiences.

Hon. Mudashiru Kamorudeen,

PDP Chairmanship flag bearer, Lagelu LG.

Ibadan Cultural Festival: Special Announcement

Following the demise of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Sen. Dr. Mahood Olalekan Ishola Balogun CFR, Alli Okunmade II on Friday 13th March, 2024, the activities of the preparations for the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival were kept on hold in honour of the Ibadan paramount ruler. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

As per the tradition, it is pertinent to await official pronouncement of a new Olubadan Designate by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State before the activities of the Ibadan Cultural Festival resumes. You will recall that all required stakeholders and Ibadan Elders have been making concerted efforts to ensure a smooth ascension of the Olubadan Designate to the throne as soon as possible. We hope and pray that this will be achieved without any delay.

While we await the Governor’s pronouncement in this regard, we wish to inform all the constituent clubs of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, all our donors and generous sponsors as well as all our potential awardees and participants that this year Ibadan Cultural Festival which had been earlier scheduled to commence from Sunday 14th April through Saturday 20th April, 2024 will be rescheduled till a date in May 2024. We shall keep you well informed as soon as a new date is confirmed.

We regret all inconveniences this change in date might have caused you or your organisation.

In conclusion, I wish to register our profound gratitude and appreciation for your support , solidarity and prayers and kindly keep the spirit of love and solidarity alive and assured……that Ibadan may excel.

Ile Ibadan yoo gbe gbogbo wa O. Aamin

For: Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes

Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola
Chairman, 2024 IBCFPC.

12 April, 2024

Official: Olubadan-in Council nominates Oba Olakulehin as 43rd Olubadan

The Olubadan-in Council on Friday has approved Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin, the Balogun of Ibadanland as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland according to the Ibadan Chieftaincy Declaration.

The meeting which was presided over by the Otun Olubadan, High Chief Rasheed Ladoja has in attendance members of the Olubadan-in-council who are traditionally the Ibadan King makers.

Our reporter leant that the motion was moved by the most senior high chief in the Balogun line that’s presenting the Olubadan, Oba Gbadamosi Adebimpe, the Osi Balogun, as the Otun Balogun was absent.

The Council will communicate their decision to the State Government for further confirmation and appointment.

CCII celebrates Adegunwa at 79, installation as Asiwaju of Ijebuland

The President General , Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole led a team to Ijebu Ososa on Thursday 04 April, 2024 to celebrate the Owner and Founder of the Rites Foods, makers of Bigi Products, Sosa Products, and Founder of Sulaiman College of Education, Ososa, Alhaji Chief Dr. Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa OFR, Chancellor Summit University Offa on his 79 birthday ceremony and installation as the Asiwaju of Ijebuland.

On his congratulatory remarks, the President General, Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole prayed for the celebrant for a healthy longevity and massive wellness to continue to serve humanity in general.

The Chairman, 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola commended Dr. Adegunwa for his remarkable support and sponsorship of the Business Luncheon program during the 2022 Ibadan Cultural Festival celebration.
Ojetola recalled the huge support that was received from the Rites Foods towards the 2022 Ibadan Cultural Festival programs. It was on this remark that the CCII considered it necessary to felicitate with the celebrant on his birthday and on his installation as the Asiwaju of Ijebuland. He also prayed for a healthy longevity for the celebrant.

In his response, Chief Dr. Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa welcomed his august visitors to Ososaland and his palatial residence with hearty prayers in appreciation of the visit. He promised to support this year’s Ibadan Cultural Festival programs as much as possible.

Congratulations and Happy Birthday to Papa Alhaji Chief Dr. Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa OFR, Chancellor Summit University Offa.

Oba Balogun: CCII lead others to pay last respect

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes under the leadership of Chief Barr. Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole on Friday, 16th March, 2024 organised lying in state ceremony as part of the burial rites for the departed Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Dr. Mohood Olalekan Balogun Alli Okunmade II at the ancient Mapo hall.

The function was attended by the Olubadan-in-council led by the Otun Olubadan, High Chief Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, Mogajis & Baales of Ibadanland, Indigenes& residents of Ibadanland.

Following the lying in state was torrent of glowing tributes by Ibadan sos and daughters while the late monarch was finally buried at Ali-iwo, his ancestral home.
The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Chief Bayo Lawal led government officials to the venue while the Chief Imam of Ibadanland led the islamic rite.

CCII mourns Oba Balogun, describes late monarch as symbol of unity

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes under the leadership of Chief Barrister Niyi Ajewole has described the passage of the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Dr. Mohood Olalekan Balogun as a great lost to the people of the ancient city.

According to the council, Kabiesi’s two years was purposeful, transformative most especially in the advancement of Ibadan land.

Read full statement below:

In Loving Memory: Olubadan Oba Senator Moshood Lekan Balogun Alli Okunmade II Passes Away, Leaving a Legacy of Leadership and Unity

With profound sorrow but submission to the will of Allah, we, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, CCII mourn the passing of our revered monarch, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Senator Moshood Lekan Balogun. Alli Okunmade II.
Though his reign spanned a brief two years, the impact of his leadership resonates deeply within the hearts of all Ibadan indigenes.

Born on October 18, 1942, in the hallowed precincts of Ali-Iwo compound, Oba Senator Balogun’s ascent to the throne of the Olubadan of Ibadanland marked the dawn of a new era filled with promise and hope. His brief yet illustrious reign was characterized by unwavering dedication to the welfare and progress of his people.

Despite the brevity of his tenure, Oba Senator Balogun’s visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to the principles of unity, progress, and development left an indelible mark on the fabric of Ibadanland. His legacy serves as a testament to the transformative power of leadership rooted in humility, wisdom, and compassion.

As we bid farewell to our beloved monarch, let us draw strength from his enduring legacy and rededicate ourselves to the noble ideals he championed. May his legacy continue to inspire us, guiding our actions and shaping the destiny of Ibadanland for generations to come.

E-signed,

Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole
President-General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes CCII

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