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ORIKADUN: A CELEBRATION OF AFRICAN CULTURE
BY AYODEJI OWOLABI
Orikadun is one of the twenty six festivals celebrated annually by the good people of Igbara-Oke in Ifedore Local Government Area of Ondo State. It has always been a moment of celebration filled with colourful display of traditional and cultural activities.
As the customs, Orikadun marks the end of the calendar (Traditional Calendar) year for the people of Igbara-Oke having enjoyed bountiful harvests in the outgoing year, and it signifies the beginning of a New Year. This year’s event attracts many important dignitaries from far and near, particularly all sons and daughters of Igbara-Oke origin, both at home and abroad. The indigene and non indigene residents, ethnic groups, religious group among others participated actively to bring out the best in the display of their different cultural heritage.
Orikadun is being celebrated by all and sundry in the town, as all other activities, including trades, social gatherings or parties will be put on hold or postponed to honour this day.
All the Queens from the three Ruling Houses, Princes and Princesses, Chiefs and their groups (Otus), Baales from the sixteen satellite towns and their villagers, the forty-three Olori-Omos and people from their quarters were all present to pay homage to Olowa and the Paramount Ruler of Igbara-Oke kingdom.
Igbara-Oke, being a border town, is relatively peaceful and played host to different ethnic and cultural groups, Igede, Igbo, Igbira, Urhobo, Hausa, Ukwuni, Igala, Benin, Idoma etc. They all live in love and harmony, without discord. These ethnic groups were all in attendance in their respective cultural attires to add colours to the event.
Orikadun Celebration can also be regarded as the final events to round-up all the festivals in Igbara-Oke. It afford the good people of Igbara-Oke the opportunity to rejoice with one another, and in appreciation to the goodness of God to see the beginning of another year. Also, it is when the beautiful cultural heritage of the good people of Igbara-Oke are showcased.
Orikadun always begins with special prayers which are usually said in the early hour between the hours of 6-7am by Olowa of Igbara-Oke at a place called “Okiti Omo Olore” at Odo-Oja. The whole town will at this hour await the arrival of Olowa at this points, while others at different junctions to accompany him to where he would say the pray for the town and all the residents.
This year’s edition was not different from what it used to be, as the prayer was said at the given time at the early hour. At Okiti Omo Olore, Olowa of Igbara-Oke, Oba Dr. Francis Adefarakanmi Agbede in his usual way reiterated the importance of the prayer as it has been from time immemorial and being observed by his forefathers. He made the people to know that Orikadun celebration has no ritual, nor being done done to worship any deities. According to him, it is purely of traditions and culture as it involves both the Christians and Muslims to give thanks to God for seeing another year.
That was why it was no surprise to have seen people of different faith at the point of prayer and later at the Palace of Olowa to expressed their joy as they celebrate.
Apart from the indigenes and the residents in Igbara-Oke, dignitaries from all works of life, government official, traditional rulers from the state and neighboring states, traditional worshiper, among others were also there to grace the occasion with their entourage.
Without mincing words, the event was indeed a wonderful way of showcasing the true African culture. Many audience attested to this and adjudged it the best ever.
The Paramount Ruler and Prescribed Authority, Olowa of Igbara-Oke kingdom, HRM, Oba Dr. Francis Adefarakanmi Agbede was full of joy and excitement to have seen his subjects, and other well wishers in the display of different culture as it concerns their tribes and groups.
The monarch in his address to the town said the reason for the crowd is as a result of love, unity and peaceful coexistence among the indigene and non indigene residents. He said, without these, this year’s celebration wouldn’t have been this glamorous.
Chiefs from different groups (also known as Otu) also spoke on the importance of living in love with one another. The Council of Chiefs, Baales, and Olori Omos in their traditions paid homage to Olowa as a sign of respect to the monarch.
All the way from Oyo Alaafin, the traditional worshippers presented the goodwill message on behalf of Alaafin of Oyo, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi to the good people of Igbara-Oke as they felicitate with the town.
Others who spoke at the events include the Special Adviser to Ondo State Governor on Transport, Barr. Tobi Ogunleye, his counterpart in the Ministry of Rural and Community Development, Hon. Babatunde Kolawole, President of Igbara-Oke Citizens in the Americas, Mr. Olu Faboyede and Sapaye of Igbara-Oke kingdom, Chief Victor Ayo Isijola.
They all applauded what they saw which they referred to as a typical of African Traditional Culture. According to them, the displayed was unique and could not be compared to any.
They also commended and appreciated the efforts of Oba Agbede at bringing together the large crowd and for the peaceful coexistence.
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of gifts to three distinguished elderly women, Mrs. Beatrice Oyedele, Mrs. Rachael Asegbeloyin and Mrs. Esther Oniya in appreciation of their efforts at waging war against Gender Violence.
Politics
Let Peace And Unity Reigns in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo aide Daniel Eromosele plead with PDP
Let Peace And Unity Reigns in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo aide Daniel Eromosele plead with PDP
Sahara Weekly Reports That The desperation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State is alarming, to say the least. Despite their decisive loss in the September 21 election, they seem determined to inflict pain and suffering on the good people of Edo. Their strategy? To create chaos and violence across the state, thereby disrupting the peace and progress that the current administration is working hard to establish. With the intention to render the State ungovernable and create room for the declaration of State of emergency in Edo.
The recent gruesome killings of Muslims traveling through the state are a stark manifestation and reminder of the PDP’s wicked and bizzare intentions. What’s even more disturbing, however, is the fact that instead of condemning these heinous acts, some senior PDP officials are trying to downplay the severity of ugly incidents. They’re using these senseless killings to call on the Federal Government to declare a State of emergency in Edo State. Nothing can be more far from the truth that these same people are the perpetrators of these wicked and barbaric acts of criminality in the State. Its so sad that, their desperation has lost regard to sanctity of human life.
Let’s be clear: there’s no justification for these acts of criminality clothed in violence no matter the political leanings of the perpetrators or their victims. Every life is precious, and every killing is a tragedy that diminishes us all. Let it be known that those that orchestrated these acts of wickedness and criminality and those that defend them are guilty of the same offence and shall be so rewarded.
The hard truth is that whatever goes around comes around. The PDP and their failed candidate should let Edo enjoy the peace and progress that Governor Monday Okpebholo is working hard to achieve. They should wait for 2028 to try their luck again, instead of trying to disrupt the state’s progress through violence and chaos.
To the good people of Edo, let’s stand together these political Buccaneers and Vampires that are out to unleash violence against the good people. Violence has never been and will never be our culture.We deserve better, and we will not be swayed by the PDP’s antics. The good people of Edo State are solidly behind their ever performing Governor AKPAKO WONDER.
news
Obijackson Foundation drives sustainable waste management, donates waste evacuation tools to Okija community
The Obijackson Foundation, in partnership with the Okija Bu Enyi Brothers Assembly, has donated 140 pieces of waste bins, 2 compactor disposable trucks, 2 operational Hilux, 1 staff bus, bundles of brooms, and other waste evacuating tools to Okija community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The donation took place at the St. Mary’s School Field Okija, on Saturday, during the official launching of “Keep Okija Clean” Initiative to drive environmental and sustainable waste management for Okija community and environs.
The “Keep Okija Clean” initiative aims to address waste management challenges while creating economic opportunities for residents of Okija.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, Founder of the Obijackson Foundation, emphasized the importance of collective action in driving meaningful change. “I am honoured to stand before you as we reintroduce, in collaboration with the Okija Bu Enyi Brothers Assembly, the ‘Keep Okija Clean’ initiative—a project that embodies our commitment to environmental sustainability and community development.
He said over 100 people have been employed for the project, adding that the gesture is another way to create jobs for the teaming unemployed in the area.
According to Azudialu-Obiejesi, ‘’This effort is a testament to the power of collaboration, as the initiative includes cleaning streets, roads, and public spaces while introducing a sustainable waste management system.
“The highlight of this programme is the future development of a properly engineered landfill for Okija and its environs, which will provide a long-term solution to waste disposal challenges. This project is expected to create employment opportunities for local youths while fostering a healthier environment when completed.
He stated that over the years, the Foundation has spearheaded several transformative projects in Okija, including: Education: establishing Gonzaga Jesuit College and Gonzaga Jesuit Academy with 100% scholarship programs for Okija children.
Others are Healthcare: Improving access to medical services through the Obijackson Women and Children’s Hospital (OWCH); and Tourism Development: Developing Acropolis Gardens and Residence—a world-class resort with a 10,000 seater international convention center designed to position Okija as a hub for business and leisure.
Azudialu-Obiejesi encouraged community members to take ownership of the waste bins provided by the Foundation: “These bins are vital resources for keeping our environment clean. By safeguarding them, we are ensuring a healthier future for ourselves and generations to come.”
“The Foundation remains committed to creating lasting changes through innovative initiatives that empower communities while preserving their environment.
Sharing his vision for a cleaner and more sustainable community,, Obiejesi said, as we continue our environmental initiative, we are not just cleaning our streets; we are building a legacy for generations to come. This initiative demonstrates that collective action can lead to meaningful change.”
“The “Keep Okija Clean” initiative reflects the Obijackson Foundation’s unwavering dedication to improving lives while preserving natural resources for future generations.
The philanthropist urged the community members to take collective ownership of the waste bins provided by the Foundation to keep Okija clean and green.
In his remark on behalf of the Anambra Government, the State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Felix Odimegwu, said the donation of the waste tools was timely as it will help with the ongoing policy of sorting waste in the state.
The event also witnessed the presence of the Managing Director of Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA), Mr. Mike Ozoemena, the Traditional ruler of the town, HRH Igwe Emeka Okezie among other top dignitaries within the state.
It was gathered that the Foundation was established in 2010 to tackle the challenges of poor literacy, empowerement, nutrition and healthcare in Eastern Nigeria, particularly in the rural areas of Anambra state
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