The people of Igede-Ekiti have announced plans to raise ₦250 million for palace renovation, infrastructure improvement and tourism development as part of activities marking the 2026 Ojude Ake Festival. The community also called for national recognition of the Onigede, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II, who has spent 67 years on the throne as the longest reigning living monarch in Africa.
Speaking at a press conference in his palace , the Chairman of the Festival Planning Committee, Dr Asiwaju Oludotun Adetuberu, said the funds would support palace expansion, improvements around Alemi River, town hall rehabilitation and community security. He said the festival would promote Igede’s cultural heritage and boost its tourism potential.
Adetuberu explained that the five-day festival would feature a secondary school quiz competition, inter-quarter football final, free medical outreach, beauty pageant, Jumat prayers and an awards night. The grand finale on Saturday would feature the fundraising drive and the conferment of honorary chieftaincy titles on selected personalities, while a thanksgiving service would hold on Sunday at St John’s Anglican Church, Igede-Ekiti.
The traditional ruler, Oba Aladesuru, traced the history of Igede Kingdom to Ake, a warrior believed to have migrated from Ile-Ife centuries ago. Meanwhile, the President of the Progressive Forum of Igede Kingdom, Dr Augustine Ibikunle, said the festival would promote unity among Christians, Muslims and other residents while encouraging collective efforts towards community development.
The local government chairman and chief host, Hon Oluwatuyi Gbenga Stephen, called for increased government support to develop Igede’s historical sites and attract tourists. The organisers urged indigenes, residents and well-wishers to support the ₦250 million fundraising initiative and participate in the festival to preserve the kingdom’s heritage and stimulate economic growth.
