By Efe Onodjae

Baale of Ijigbe Village in the Ado-Odo area of Ogun State, Amuda Okewole Akibonjagbeti, has said preservation of the Yoruba culture is important.

Okewole made this remark in a statement shared with our correspondent, marking one month since his installation as the Baale of Ijigbe in the state.

According to the statement, the chief emphasised that the Yoruba people should be reminded of their rich history, enduring resilience, and shared destiny.

He added that it was essential to preserve and pass on the community’s cultures by educating people about them.

The statement read, “Let us draw inspiration from our forefathers and work hand-in-hand to build a brighter future for Ijigbe, a place where tradition meets progress, where every voice is heard, and where every resident can truly flourish. I am eager to serve, to listen, and to lead with integrity. Together, we will make Ijigbe a true place to be.

“As I embark on this sacred assignment, I am filled with optimism and purpose for Ijigbe. This is a call to every son and daughter of Ijigbe ancestry, wherever you may be, to come together. Let us unite our efforts, our ideas, and our resources to support this new leadership. Our collective strength is important to making Ijigbe the thriving, peaceful, and prosperous community we all envision.

“With a heart full of gratitude and humility, I, Baale Amuda Olatunji Okewole Akibonjagbeti, address you today as the newly installed Baale of Ijigbe Village in the esteemed Ado-Odo Kingdom, Ogun State. Exactly one month ago, on this very day, I had the profound honour of being installed by His Royal Majesty, Oba Olusola Idris Lamidi-Osolo, the Oba of Ado and Olofin Adimula of Ado-Odo Kingdom (Otenibotemole II). This momentous occasion marks not just a personal milestone, but a new chapter for our beloved Ijigbe.”

Okewole expressed his gratitude to the village monarch for his support and pledged to contribute to the development of the community.

He said, “My appreciation goes to His Royal Majesty, Oba Olusola Lamidi-Osolo (Otenibotemole II), for his wisdom, his trust, and for bestowing upon me the responsibility to lead our community. I am truly humbled by your confidence, and pledge to uphold the rich traditions and values of Ado-Odo Kingdom as I serve the people of Ijigbe.

“I also wish to extend my gratitude to Olofin Council of Baales for their invaluable guidance, support, and wisdom throughout this process. I look forward to working closely with each of you as we collectively strive for progress and unity within our kingdom. To my dear Okejana family, your support has been a pillar throughout this journey. Your encouragement and solidarity mean the world to me. And to the entire Adekunle Akibonjagbeti Descendant Family, thank you for your love and for standing by me every step of the way. Your love and support are a testament to our shared heritage.”