Glitzy, Glamorous Celebration… Otta Stands Still for 2024 Iganmode Cultural Festival [PHOTOS]

Glitzy, Glamorous Celebration… Otta Stands Still for 2024 Iganmode Cultural Festival [PHOTOS]

“The display of cultural values at this festival has consistently attracted investors to the state. It is a cultural extravaganza that reminds the Awori people of their distinct origin…” – Gov Abiodun

It was an afternoon of pomp and pageantry on Saturday, December 21, 2024, as the ancient city of Otta, Aworiland in Ado-Odo/Otta LGA, Ogun State, Nigeria, celebrated the grand finale of the highly revered Iganmode Cultural Festival, popularly known as “Odun Omo Iganmode,” writes Lukman Omikunle

The colorful ceremony, held at the beautifully designed Otta Township Mini Stadium, drew a massive crowd of indigenes and dignitaries, including captains of industry, politicians, business moguls, socialites, entertainers, and royal fathers from Aworiland and beyond. Among the notable attendees was the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Prof. Saka Adelola Matemilola.

A Celebration of Heritage and Unity

The Olota of Otta, Oba (Prof.) AbduKabir Adeyemi Obalanlege (Lanlege Ekun II), radiated joy as he welcomed guests and sons and daughters of Aworiland to the festival. In his goodwill message, he stated, “This grand occasion is a celebration of our rich cultural heritage, unity, and collective pride as Awori people.”

Expressing gratitude to fellow monarchs for their support, Oba Obalanlege remarked, “Your solidarity epitomizes the spirit of unity captured in our Awori saying, ‘oosho lawa’—‘we are bound together in unity.’ Your presence inspires and strengthens us all.”

He also acknowledged the contributions of political leaders in the local government, emphasizing their pivotal role in facilitating impactful projects that have advanced the development of Ottaland and its people. “Their cooperation and commitment remain a pillar of progress in our domain,” he noted, urging continued efforts for the Kingdom’s growth.

Commitment to Cultural Roots

Chief Temitayo Idowu, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, highlighted in his welcome address the unwavering commitment of Otta natives to their cultural heritage despite the town’s cosmopolitan status. “We remain proud torchbearers of the rich heritage and cultural values that define us as a people,” he said, “never forgetting the bonds that tie us to our ancestors.”

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, also sent a goodwill message, commending the festival for mobilizing Awori sons and daughters both at home and abroad to foster socio-economic and infrastructural development.

In the message seen by newsheadline247, the governor remarked, “The display of cultural values at this festival has consistently attracted investors to the state. It is a cultural extravaganza that reminds the Awori people of their distinct origin and fosters communal understanding, love, and unity.”

Reflecting on the year’s accomplishments, the governor added, “This year’s celebration provides an opportunity to look into the future with hope of breaking new frontiers.”

Highlights of the Festival

One of the key highlights of the event, chaired by Jusitice Atinuke Oluyemi, was the parade of families, groups, and society clubs paying homage to the Olota, Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege, other royal fathers, and distinguished guests. The Otun family stole the show during the parade, their striking carton-brown uniformed aso-oke catching the eyes of all attendees. Other families and groups also put on a majestic display, showcasing their traditional attire in a spirited competition.

The Otun family clinched the grand prize for the best parade, with their rich traditional outfits emphasizing the festival’s cultural essence. A memorable moment was the horse ride by a young man who reenacted the heroism of Iganmode Afeleja. Additionally, the Otta Cultural Troupe delivered a captivating performance that celebrated the town’s heritage.

Distinguished Guests and Royal Presence

Prominent royal fathers at the event included the Olu of Ilaro and paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, the Olofin Ado-Odo Aworiland, Oba Idris Adebowale Lamidi-Osolo, the Olofi of Isheri Aworiland, Oba Sulaimon Adekunle Bamgbade and the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Saka Adetola Matemilola, Oluyalo Otileta VII among others.

Other dignitaries included Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Chairperson of the occasion, Justice Oluyemi; former Lagos State Deputy Governor and Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire; Chief Waliu Jide Ojuko; Ado-Odo/Otta LG Chairman, Wasiu Lawal; Sen. Akin Odunsi; Rep. member Engr. Tunji Akinosi; Hon. Sherif Yusuf; former Ogun House of Assembly member, Hon. Nurudeen Aina Akinpelu; Chief Waliu Taiwo; Chief Durojaiye Aiyedogbon; and members of the Iganmode Club and various associations.

The 2024 Iganmode Cultural Festival was a vibrant celebration of heritage, unity, and pride, leaving attendees with unforgettable memories and renewed hope for the future of Aworiland.