The annual Odun Ade Festival in Imesi-Ekiti is poised to become a significant event for the rejuvenation of cultural bonds and family ties in Yoruba culture. Scheduled for November 11, this event aims to strengthen the historical relationship between the people of Akure and Imesi-Ekiti, with the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, Odudun II, expected to attend.
A statement issued by the Onimesi of Ekiti, Oba Olatunji Olatunde, Olaibiyemi II, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ado-Ekiti, explained that the festival also serves to showcase the cultural heritage that defines the Yoruba people.
During the event, the Deji is set to engage in a “fraternal bonding war” with the Onimesi of Imesi-Ekiti, Oba Olatunji Olatunde, Olaibiyemi II.
The Deji of Akure, who serves as the Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers, will rally notable Obas from the state and the entire Osokoti Clan of Akure to congregate in Imesi-Ekiti, strengthening the long-standing fraternal ties between the Onimesi and the Osokoti Clan of Akure.
Oba Olatunde explained that this event is rooted in the historical connections, particularly the migration of Supelewa, an Akure Princess from the Osokoti clan, to Imesi-Ekiti during the reign of his forefathers. The festival celebrates the significance of this connection and aims to express gratitude to the Deji of Akure and the Osokoti Clan for their role in the lineage of the present Onimesi.
This year’s Odun Ade Festival promises a wealth of cultural festivities that underscore the unity and shared heritage of the Yoruba people. It is a celebration of bonding, not division.
The Chairman of the Ekiti Council of Traditional Rulers, the Olojudo of Ido-Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro, will also be present at Imesi-Ekiti to welcome his counterpart from Ondo state, according to the statement.
