By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The Convener of The Alternates, Chief Segun Sowunmi has emphasized that the transformation of Nigeria should begin with the development of one’s immediate environment.

Speaking with newsmen on the sidelines of his conferment as ‘Odofin’ Keesi, in Abeokuta, in Abeokuta South local government area of Ogun State, Sowunmi stressed that true change in the nation starts from the areas individuals belong to, if given the opportunity to lead.

Sowunmi, who expressed his gratitude to the elders and people of Keesi town, promised to leverage his new title to foster collaboration among the indigenes, both at home and in diaspora.

He noted that efforts to revitalize the town had already begun, with initial work having commenced weeks ago.

He also mentioned that reports on the progress of these efforts are expected in the near future, reflecting his commitment to driving development in the area.

Acknowledging the rich history and cultural significance of Keesi town in Egbaland, Sowunmi reminded the gathering of the pivotal role the town and its people have played in the region.

He described his new chieftaincy title as not just a personal achievement, but as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development of Keesi town.

Sowunmi further urged the younger generation to become actively involved in community development, stressing that it is crucial for them to show interest in preserving and advancing the legacy of their forebears.

With many elders now aging, he highlighted the importance of the youth taking up the mantle of leadership and working towards enhancing the achievements of their predecessors.

While appreciating the community’s trust in him, Sowunmi also called for unity among the people of Keesi, stressing that development cannot be achieved through individual efforts alone, but requires the collective participation of all stakeholders.

Sowunmi is hopeful that his role as the Odofin will serve as a catalyst for greater collaboration and progress within the town.

Sowunmi reiterated that “sustainable development is a shared responsibility, and the transformation of Keesi, and by extension, Nigeria, begins with individuals taking ownership of their local communities. His focus, he assured, will remain on fostering unity, empowering the younger generation, and ensuring that Keesi town reaches its full potential”.

“So we know who we are, we are sure of who we are and by the grace of God we will continue to add our own little to it, we will bring more to it, we will bring more to table, we will look for all sons and daughters to get them interested.

“Kessi is one of the four children that came from homestead. Kessi been the eldest, followed by Kemta, Ketu which is now in Benin republic and the last born is Ake.

“This particular section where we have Kessi, the Oluwo is the highest ranking authority, and very closely followed by Odofin. As a matter of fact, it is a traditional tittle that almost exclusively belongs to the Akirokun family where i come from.

“My grandfather was an Odofin, my father is the present Balogun, my Uncle is the Apena, most of these men are getting advance in age; therefore, it becomes necessary for us their younger children to come and partake in it to look at it and see how we can improve it.

“Of all the towns here, Keesi particularly significant. We are the first to have our own community build school, which is Kessi community school, we are the first to have our own clinic, which is Keesi clinic, we are the first to have own town hall, which very expensive town hall that you see around, and obviously you can see our Ile-Ogboni (the traditional cult shrine, where we have our own cult, clearly the best and the biggest for now in the whole of Egbaland.

He shared his deep connection to Keesi’s legacy, revealing that the Odofin title has a long-standing tradition in his family.

“My grandfather was an Odofin, my father is the current Balogun, and my uncle holds the title of Apena. These men are advancing in age, and it is our responsibility, as their children, to ensure the continuity of their work and legacy,” Sowunmi explained.

He also highlighted Keesi’s significant achievements, noting that the town was the first to establish a community-built school, clinic, and town hall in the region.

“Keesi is the oldest of the four children that came from our homestead, with Ketu, now in Benin Republic, and Ake following. The people of Keesi have always led by example, and we will continue to add to that legacy by bringing everyone—sons and daughters of Keesi—together for the betterment of our community and our people”, he concluded.