The Ilupeju Youth Development Association (IYDA) has congratulated the Apeju of Ilupeju-Ekiti, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sunday David Awe Akingbade I, the Obanla of Ilupeju-Ekiti, His Highness Sunday Olukayode Ogunsola, the leadership of the Ilupeju Development Association (IDA), traditional chiefs, political and religious leaders, and all sons and daughters of Ilupeju-Ekiti at home and in the diaspora on the occasion of the 2026 New Yam Festival.
In a statement made available to journalists, Comrade Lawrence Ibitoye, expressed gratitude to God for preserving the lives of the royal fathers, the people of Ilupeju-Ekiti, and other residents to witness another edition of the annual cultural celebration.
The association described the New Yam Festival as one of the community’s most cherished traditions, saying it promotes unity, peace, and the preservation of Ilupeju-Ekiti’s cultural heritage. It also commended the prevailing peace in the town and prayed for continued progress, development, and prosperity.
The 2026 festival began today with a colourful procession led by the Queen of the Apeju, Olori Abosede David Awe Akingbade, alongside other wives of the royal palace, dressed in white. Carrying yams on their heads, they moved to Menara Market to formally herald the monarch’s eating of the new yam.
By tradition, no one is allowed to bring new yam into the market or consume it until the Apeju has performed the customary rites marking the festival.
As part of the festival activities, the Apeju, the Obanla, members of the Apeju-in-Council, the Elegbe, High Chief Michael Alonge, the Alamoeku, and other traditional chiefs will gather at the market square, popularly known as Udi Uto, on Sunday, 5 July 2026, at 7:00 a.m. There, the Apeju and the custodian of Menara Market will offer traditional prayers for the wellbeing, peace, progress, and rapid development of Ilupeju-Ekiti and its people.
In line with the age-long tradition of the community, women are not permitted to stay close to Udi Uto during the prayer session. After the prayers, the Apeju and the Obanla, both dressed in white traditional attire, will lead a celebratory procession back to the palace, where residents and indigenes will join in the festivities.
IYDA called on all sons and daughters of Ilupeju-Ekiti, both at home and abroad, to actively participate in the festival and support efforts to make it a globally recognised cultural event.
The association said the Apeju, since ascending the throne of his forefathers with the support of the Obanla, has remained committed to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Ilupeju-Ekiti.
It also appreciated the National President of the Ilupeju Development Association, Elder Banji Ogungbe, members of the National Executive, the Home Base leadership, and other indigenes for their contributions to the growth and development of the community.
Comrade Ibitoye reaffirmed IYDA’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace, unity, cultural preservation, and sustainable development in Ilupeju-Ekiti.
