The Onirete of Irete-Ijebu, Oba Olusegun Awokoya-Yesufu, has called on the Ogun State Government to urgently intervene in critical areas of development, particularly the establishment of a primary school and a security outpost, as preparations intensify for the 2026 Irete Owoila Day celebration.
The monarch made the appeal while addressing journalists ahead of the second edition of the annual cultural event scheduled for Sunday, April 5, 2026, at the open field of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona College of Education and Technology.
Oba Awokoya-Yesufu, while acknowledging ongoing infrastructural efforts by the Federal Government—especially the opening of rural road networks linking Irete to Epe, Lekki, and the Dangote Refinery corridor—urged the Ogun State Government to complement such efforts by addressing grassroots needs in education and security.
He noted that the presence of a growing student population and expanding community activities makes the demand for a government-owned primary school and a security formation imperative.
The monarch called on sons and daughters of Irete at home and in the diaspora to rally support for the celebration, describing it as a platform for unity, cultural preservation, and accelerated development.
In a significant cultural reaffirmation, representatives of the Jadiara Dynasty also declared their solidarity with the community. Speaking, Pastor Prince Bola Salami, Deputy Oloriebi of the Jadiara Dynasty and General Secretary of the ruling house, described Irete as an integral part of the Jadiara heritage.
“Irete is part of us; part of Jadiara from time immemorial, and we are proud to be associated with it. We are confident that this year’s event will be memorable,” he said, commending the monarch for visible developmental strides in the community.
Coordinator of the Organising Committee, Otunba Dosumu Saheed, reiterated the need for government intervention, particularly in education and security, noting that while progress has been recorded, more attention is required to meet the town’s growing demands.
Also speaking, the Iyalode of the land, Chief Mrs. Ogoji Idayat Tope, pledged the support of women in ensuring the success of the event, highlighting their readiness to contribute to hospitality and logistics.
The Ayowoneyo Area CDC Chairman and Tanyese of Irete-Ijebu, Chief Ayodele Yaya Olayinka, described the monarch as visionary and transformative, noting that the introduction of Irete Owoila Day has become a rallying point for unity and development.
Similarly, the Head of the Olorituns, Chief Adekoya Adedeji Abdulnasiru, affirmed the readiness of the traditional structure to ensure a successful outing, explaining that the Olorituns remain key implementers of community decisions.
Activities lined up for the celebration include a football tournament, marathon race, cultural displays, and musical performances, with Fuji star Musiliu Ishola billed to perform.
Organisers also disclosed plans for a free medical outreach, with the monarch sponsoring treatment for identified health conditions.
Adequate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety of participants.
Community leaders expressed optimism about transforming Irete into a model town through sustained collaboration, noting that Irete Owoila Day continues to serve as a catalyst for unity, cultural identity, and long-term development.
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