• Excitement as Ogun community showcases rich heritage at Ososa Omoroye Day
By Lukman Olabiyi
This year’s edition of Ososa Omoroyo Day in Ososa, Odoogbolu local government, Ogun State, was nothing short of extraordinary, a vibrant celebration that not only marked a significant chapter in the town’s history but also ignited a renewed sense of unity and pride among its people.
The event was a thrilling blend of cultural traditions, high-spirited performances, and a deep sense of community that left an unforgettable impression on all who attended.
Ososa Omoroyo Day, a longstanding tradition, saw the town’s streets filled with excitement as cultural displays, traditional dances, and lively performances brought the essence of Ososa to life.
Local artists and performers showcased the rich heritage of the community, their music and dance filling the air with energy and joy.
From the colourful parade of age groups and clubs to the captivating cultural displays such as Egungun, Epa, Jigbo, and the mesmerizing Gbedu dance, the celebration was a vivid reflection of Ososa’s enduring cultural identity.
But this year’s Omoroyo Day was more than just a celebration of tradition, it was a powerful reminder of the community’s collective achievements and its vision for a brighter future.
At the forefront of the celebration was the revered Gbegande of Ososaland, Oba Mojeed Adetoye Alatishe, whose pride in his people was palpable.
In his address, the monarch expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who had come to witness the occasion, acknowledging their contributions to the town’s progress.
Oba Alatishe spoke passionately about Ososa’s remarkable transformation over the past decade, highlighting the town’s development under his leadership.
He proudly recounted the efforts of Ososa’s sons and daughters, especially the generous donation of a modern ante-natal clinic by Ososans from the UK and Ireland.
According to him, this donation, coupled with a medical porta cabin from Rotary International of Lagos, was a testament to the community’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of its people.
Another milestone achievement that Oba Alatishe proudly shared was the donation of a 500kV transformer by Oluwafemi Ogunbanwo, which helped resolve the electricity crisis affecting several areas of the town, including Osalakoye and Idomowo Oke-Esin.
The monarch’s message of unity and progress resonated deeply with everyone in attendance.
His infectious enthusiasm left the crowd inspired and motivated, reaffirming their collective commitment to continue working together to build an even brighter future for Ososa.
“The future is in our hands,” he declared, urging the people to keep pushing for greater progress.
The Chairman of the 2024 Ososa Omoroyo Day Planning Committee, Chief Abayomi Idowu Adewunmi, also took the stage to reflect on the significance of the day.
As he recalled last year’s theme, “Building Consensus,” which emphasized collaboration, he introduced this year’s theme: “Create Hope, In Yourself, Your Community, and the World.” Chief Adewunmi’s speech was a call to action for the people of Ososa to adopt a forward-thinking vision, ensuring that the legacy of Omoroyo Day continues to shape the town’s future for generations to come.
One of the most memorable moments of the celebration was the recognition of individuals who had contributed significantly to the town’s growth.
Among them was Otunba Ayodele James Idowu, the Secretary of the Planning Committee and President of the Ososa United Society, who was conferred with the title of Otunba Bobaselu of Ososa Land.
His wife, in recognition of their tireless service to the community, was also honored with the title of Yeye Otunba Bobaselu.
The event drew a distinguished crowd, with several dignitaries in attendance, including the Oni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, represented by the Onifegunwa of Ifegunwa, Ile-Ife, Oba Adedire Adewale Solomon. Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, was also present, alongside other prominent figures, including Ogunbanwo Adeleke Olufemi, the Minority Leader of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Lukman Adeleye, the Executive Chairman of the Odogbolu Local Council Development Authority, Adeboye Ogunbadejo, and Dr. Wale Ogunbadejo, the Chairman of the Day and President of Ososa United Society.
The 2024 Ososa Omoroyo Day was more than just a celebration, it was a statement of Ososa’s enduring spirit of unity, progress, and cultural pride.
As the people of Ososa continue to build on their town’s successes, they do so with a renewed commitment to their community’s future, fueled by the excitement and energy of this historic occasion.
The spirit of collaboration and achievement that permeated the event promises to propel Ososa to even greater heights in the years to come.