By Law Ibitoye
The Apeju of Ilupeju Ekiti, Oba Sunday Awe David Akingbade, has charged all sons and daughters of Ilupeju Ekiti to actively promote initiatives and activities that will further strengthen unity in the town, stressing that sustainable and massive development can only thrive in an atmosphere of togetherness.
The monarch gave the charge during the 2026 Igba Festival, a revered annual cultural event that draws indigenes from within and outside the community. According to Oba Akingbade, unity remains the strongest foundation upon which meaningful growth, peace, and progress can be built.
He noted that when the people speak with one voice and work collectively, development will naturally abound, urging residents to shun division and embrace cooperation in all spheres of communal life.
Apeju emphasized that the Igba Festival serves not only as a celebration of culture and tradition but also as a period of reflection, prayers, and renewed commitment to shared values that bind the people together. Calling on youths, elders, community leaders, and indigenes in the diaspora, the monarch appealed for continuous support for efforts aimed at fostering harmony, mutual respect, and collective responsibility for the advancement of Ilupeju Ekiti.
Reaffirming that the unity of Ilupeju Ekiti is sacrosanct, Oba Akingbade prayed for peace, prosperity, and accelerated development in the town, urging all indigenes to remain worthy ambassadors of their community wherever they may be.
Oba Akingbade further expressed deep appreciation for the unflinching support of traditional institutions and community stakeholders, including the Obanla of Ilupeju Ekiti, His Highness Sunday Ogunsola, members of the Apeju-in-Council, quarter chiefs, religious and political leaders, youths, as well as market men and women, for their continued commitment to peace and progress in the community.
Odun Igba Festival is traditionally marked by cultural displays, communal prayers, and renewed commitment to the values of unity, respect, and service—principles the monarch said must continue to guide the town’s journey forward
