kakalistiq.com reports that the Okemagba Development Association (ODA) held its maiden Presidential Gala on Sunday, December 15, 2024, in a grand celebration of unity, reflection, and vision. Amid the glitz and glamour, speeches by dignitaries spotlighted the community’s journey over the past 45 years while addressing pressing issues affecting the Okemagba area.
Chief S.O. Bakare, Babajale of Ijebuland and Chairman of the event, expressed heartfelt joy at the realization of a vision conceived in 1979. “It gladdens my heart that the dream we had over 45 years ago has become a reality. The efforts of myself and other illustrious sons and daughters, many of whom are now late, were not in vain. This legacy must live on for generations to come,” he remarked.
He also recalled ODA’s historic achievements, including the 1992 civic reception for Sir Michael Agbolade Otedola, which unified the Okemagba area. “That event, held in this same hall, made a bold statement of our unity and purpose. I hope today’s members can rekindle such camaraderie,” he added.
Addressing the challenges facing Okemagba, Chief Bakare raised concerns about youth restiveness in the area. “I am deeply troubled by the sight of youths loitering and drinking as early as 9 a.m. They are our future, yet their behavior suggests otherwise. Are these the youths we wish to entrust with our legacy? The answer is no,” he lamented.
He called on parents, community leaders, and government officials to prioritize education, skill acquisition, and employment for the youth. “We must equip our young people with skills to make them independent and self-sufficient. Let us invest in their future, and by extension, the future of Okemagba,” he emphasized.
Chief Bakare also highlighted the lack of unity among Okemagba’s traditional rulers as a barrier to development. “Okemagba is blessed with rich heritage, UNESCO-recognized sites, and tourism potential, yet disunity among our royal fathers hampers our progress. It’s time to rally together and present a united front,” he urged.
He further referenced the recent $400,000 grant from the U.S. government for the development of the Sugbon Eredo cave, calling for more collaborative efforts to attract investment and boost tourism.
Another issue of concern was the rampant illegal sale of land in the area. “Our land is our legacy, yet it is being sold off cheaply. If this continues, we risk becoming strangers in our own land,” he warned. Chief Bakare called for strict measures, including ostracizing those involved in land grabbing, to protect the community’s patrimony.
Rep. Wale Raji, representing Epe Federal Constituency, reassured attendees of his commitment to driving development across the 11 ODA communities. “Our leadership will continue to foster partnerships to uplift Okemagba. Together, we will make significant strides,” he promised.
The Alara of Ilara, represented by High Chief Balogun Azeez, commended the founding fathers of ODA for their visionary efforts. “Their dedication established ODA as a beacon of excellence in Epe Division. Today, their legacies inspire us to continue fostering unity and development,” he said.
He pledged the Alara’s full support for ODA’s initiatives, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to attain prosperity for Okemagba and its environs.
The association’s President, Otunba Felix Awolaja, the Secretary, Mr. Tijani, and Publicity Secretary, Hon. Sammy Adeniyi, echoed these sentiments. “We’re building on the foundation laid by our forefathers. Our focus includes setting up a tech hub to engage and empower the youth, keeping them off the streets and preparing them for a brighter future,” Otunba Awolaja stated.
The gala, featuring a thrilling performance by Afro-Juju maestro Sir Shina Peters, celebrated the past while looking toward the future. The event was a call to action for unity, responsibility, and collective growth, setting the stage for a new chapter in the history of Okemagba.
